Royal Flasher Wrasse

Royal Flasher Wrasse: The Flashing Jewel of the Reef

The Royal Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus angulatus), often called the Angular Flasher Wrasse or simply Angulatus Flasher Wrasse, is a small, highly sought-after species known for its spectacular courtship displays. Belonging to the Paracheilinus genus, this wrasse earns its common name from the male’s habit of instantaneously "flashing" brilliant, neon colors and dramatically flaring its dorsal and anal fins, usually around dusk or when courting a female.

Males feature a striking coloration, often a base of red or reddish-orange with several violet or light purple horizontal stripes. The fins are highlighted with vibrant red, yellow, and iridescent blue/green markings. The female is more subdued but still attractive.

Reaching a small maximum size of around 3 inches (7-8 cm), this peaceful and active species is an ideal, show-stopping addition to any well-maintained reef or community aquarium.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: The Royal Flasher Wrasse is a Carnivore that feeds primarily on zooplankton, actively foraging in the water column and amongst the rockwork. In captivity, feed a varied and high-quality diet of meaty preparations, including vitamin-enriched mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and fine frozen foods. They will also typically accept high-quality marine flakes or small pellets.
• Feeding: Due to their small size and high metabolism, they should be fed 2 to 3 times per day in small amounts to maintain optimal health, energy, and color saturation.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe. This species is completely safe with all corals, clams, and most ornamental invertebrates. Unlike some other wrasse genera, Flasher Wrasses are primarily zooplankton feeders and are not known to consume nuisance pests like flatworms. They are also generally safe with small ornamental shrimp.
• Temperament: Peaceful and Community-Oriented. The Royal Flasher Wrasse is timid and should not be housed with aggressive fish that may bully it or prevent it from feeding. Males will display flashing behavior frequently, especially when a small group of females is present. They are best kept as a single male, or in a harem of one male and several females, as this encourages the male's best colors. They generally coexist well with other Fairy Wrasses (Cirrhilabrus species) and other peaceful community fish.
• Aquarium Cover: A secure, tight-fitting lid is mandatory. Like all Wrasses, this species is a noted jumper, especially when startled or stressed during acclimation.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Paracheilinus angulatus
• Primary Common Name: Royal Flasher Wrasse
• Other Common Names: Angular Flasher Wrasse, Lyretail Flasher Wrasse
• Origin: Western Central Pacific (Philippines and Indonesia)
• Max Size: 3 inches (7-8 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful / Active
• Diet: Carnivore (Zooplankton feeder)
• Minimum Tank Size: 50–55 Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Safe with corals and most invertebrates)