Description
McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus mccoskeri)
Overview
The McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse is a dazzling, energetic reef fish known for its brilliant orange and blue coloration and dramatic fin displays during courtship. Small, peaceful, and full of personality, this species adds vibrant movement and color to any community or reef aquarium.
Origin
Native to the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific, Paracheilinus mccoskeri inhabits coral reefs and outer reef slopes, often forming small groups where males “flash” their fins to attract females.
Feeding
An active carnivore that thrives on a varied diet of frozen mysis, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets. Feed 2–3 times daily for best color and vitality.
Tank Mates
Peaceful and reef-safe, it coexists well with other small, non-aggressive fish such as gobies, anthias, and fairy wrasses. Avoid housing with aggressive or overly boisterous species that may intimidate it.
Aggression
Generally peaceful, though males may display flashing behavior toward other wrasses. Best kept singly or as a male-female pair in smaller tanks; groups can be kept in larger systems.
Experience Level
Excellent for beginner to intermediate aquarists. Hardy, colorful, and easy to feed, this wrasse thrives in mature aquariums with stable conditions and a secure lid (as they may jump).
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C)
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Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025 SG
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pH: 8.1 – 8.4
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Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH
Colorful, peaceful, and endlessly entertaining, the McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse is a perfect choice for adding vibrant motion and charm to reef or community aquariums.
