The Eightline Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus octotaenia), also known as the Red Sea Flasher Wrasse, is a vibrant and active marine fish native to the Red Sea. Renowned for its striking appearance and peaceful disposition, this species is a prized addition to reef aquariums.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes (peaceful and non-aggressive)
• Small invertebrate safe: ✅ Yes (reef-safe; does not harm invertebrates)
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes (does not harm corals)
• Minimum tank size: 190 litres (50 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on zooplankton and small meaty foods
• Be aware of: Prone to jumping (requires a secure lid); males exhibit vibrant coloration during courtship displays; best kept singly or in harems with one male and multiple females
Appearance and Colouration
The Eightline Flasher Wrasse exhibits sexual dimorphism:
• Males: Display vibrant red to yellow hues with eight narrow blue lines running horizontally along their bodies. They possess large and impressive dorsal and anal fins.
• Females and Juveniles: Generally exhibit more subdued coloration with less pronounced finnage.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Paracheilinus octotaenia inhabits coral-rich areas of seaward reefs, typically at depths greater than 25 meters. They are active swimmers, often found in small groups with a dominant male overseeing several females and juveniles. These diurnal fish spend most of their time mid-water, foraging for planktonic prey.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
• Minimum Tank Size: 190 litres (50 gallons)
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 78°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping:
• Provide ample live rock formations to create hiding spots and replicate their natural reef environment.
• Ensure open swimming spaces to accommodate their active nature.
• Lighting: Moderate to high, mimicking natural reef conditions.
• Water Movement: Moderate to strong, reflecting their natural habitat.
Important Note: A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as Eightline Flasher Wrasses are known jumpers, especially when startled.
Diet and Feeding
In their natural environment, these wrasses primarily feed on zooplankton. In captivity, they adapt well to a variety of meaty foods.
• Captive Diet:
• Offer vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.
• Provide high-quality marine flake and pellet foods.
• Supplement with live foods such as copepods and amphipods to encourage natural foraging behaviors.
Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily to maintain health and vibrant coloration.
Compatibility and Social Structure
• Temperament: Generally peaceful and suitable for community aquariums. Males may display increased coloration and fin displays during courtship.
• Tank Mates: Compatible with other non-aggressive species such as gobies, blennies, and dwarf angelfish. Avoid housing with aggressive or significantly larger species that may intimidate or outcompete them.
• Social Structure: Best kept singly or in harems with one male and multiple females. Introducing multiple males in the same tank can lead to aggression unless the aquarium is sufficiently large.
Important Considerations
• Jumping Behavior: Ensure the aquarium has a secure lid, as these wrasses are prone to leaping out of tanks.
• Acclimation: Introduce them to well-established aquariums with stable water parameters to reduce stress.
• Color Variability: Depending on their geographic origin, coloration may vary among individuals.
Summary
The Eightline Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus octotaenia) is a vibrant and active addition to marine aquariums. Their peaceful nature, striking coloration, and dynamic swimming behavior make them a favorite among reef keepers. Providing appropriate tank conditions, a suitable diet, and a compatible social environment ensures that this beautiful species will thrive in captivity.