The Yellowfin Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus flavianalis) is a vibrant and active addition to marine aquariums. Their peaceful nature, striking colouration, and dynamic swimming behaviour make them a favourite among reef enthusiasts. Providing appropriate tank conditions, a suitable diet, and a compatible social environment ensures that this beautiful species will thrive in captivity.
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: 200 litres (53 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 8 cm (3.1 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on zooplankton and small meaty foods
• Be aware of: Prone to jumping (requires a tight-fitting lid); males exhibit vibrant colouration during courtship displays; best kept singly or in harems with one male and multiple females
Appearance and Colouration
The Yellowfin Flasher Wrasse exhibits notable sexual dimorphism:
• Males: Display vibrant colouration, with a yellowish-orange body adorned with blue stripes along the sides and bands radiating from the eye. The dorsal fin features a bright red, teardrop-shaped marking with elongated filamentous rays.
• Females and Juveniles: Generally exhibit more subdued colouration, often reddish with violet stripes and lacking the elongated dorsal-fin rays.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Paracheilinus flavianalis is native to the Eastern Indian Ocean, particularly around Indonesia and northwestern Australia. They inhabit coral reefs, typically at depths ranging from shallow crests to deeper reef areas.
• Social Structure: Often found in small groups, with a dominant male overseeing several females and juveniles.
• Activity: Diurnal and active swimmers, spending most of their time mid-water, foraging for planktonic prey.
• Behaviour: Peaceful and non-aggressive, making them an excellent addition to community aquariums.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
• Minimum Tank Size: 200 litres (53 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 Paracheilinus flavianalis are known jumpers, especially when startled.
Diet and Feeding
In their natural environment, Yellowfin Flasher 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 behaviours.
Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily to maintain health and vibrant colouration.
Compatibility and Social Structure
• Temperament:
• Generally peaceful and suitable for community aquariums.
• Males may display increased colouration 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 Behaviour: 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.
• Colour Variability: Depending on their geographic origin, colouration may vary significantly among individuals.
Summary
The Yellowfin Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus flavianalis) is a vibrant and active addition to marine aquariums. Their peaceful nature, striking colouration, and dynamic swimming behaviour make them a favourite among reef keepers. Providing appropriate tank conditions, a suitable diet, and a compatible social environment ensures that this beautiful species will thrive in captivity.