Filamentous Wrasse

Paracheilinus Filamentosus
Filamenteous Wrasse - Marinewise © 2024 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific name Paracheilinus Filamentosus
Other names Filamented Flasher, Filament Fin Wrasse, Filamentous Flasher Wrasse
Size Up to 15 cm (5.9 in)
Weight Under 75 grams

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Coastal waters amongst coral reefs along reef edges, slopes & drop offs
Depth Range 2 - 25 m (82 ft)
Filamentous Flasher Wrasse Distribution

Interesting Info

  • The filamentous wrasse, is a small marine fish species commonly found in the tropical waters of the Western Pacific Ocean, including the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia.
  • The colour of the filamentous wrasse varies depending on the sex and age of the fish. The males have a reddish-orange body with blue lines or spots on the fins and tail, while the females are pale with a yellow tail.
  • The filamentous wrasse are carnivorous and feed on a variety of small invertebrates and zooplankton.
  • They are a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning that it is born as a female and can later change into a male.
  • The filamentous wrasse can spawn throughout the year, with peak spawning occurring during the summer months. They havea low reproductive output, with females producing only a few hundred eggs per breeding cycle.
  • Estimated lifespan is up to 5 years in the wild.
Species Interaction

Aquarium, Snorkeling & Diving

The filamentous wrasse is a popular species among marine aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking coloration and peaceful nature. They are considered to be relatively easy to care for. Filamentous wrasses are also very active fish, and they can often be seen swimming in groups around coral reefs and other underwater structures. They are not afraid to approach snorkelers and divers, which means that you can get a good look at them up close.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Labridae

Genus: Paracheilinus

Species: Paracheilinus Filamentosus

Conservation Status

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the filamented flasher wrasse has not been assessed for conservation status. However, as with all marine species, they face threats such as habitat degradation, overfishing, and climate change, which can impact their populations and ultimately their conservation status.

Filamentous Wrasse
As Aquarium Fish

Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Carnivore

Reef Compatible: Yes

Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons

Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba

Finding: Easy

Temperament: Peaceful

Location: Inner Reef, Lagoon

Danger: None