McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus mccoskeri) is a popular and dazzling nano-reef fish belonging to the family Labridae.

Distribution and Habitat

Found in the Indian Ocean from the Maldives to the Andaman Sea, commonly inhabiting outer reef slopes and rubble patches at moderate depths.

Physical Description

Displays vivid orange and yellow body tones, while males flash bright red and blue colors during courtship displays with erect dorsal filaments.

Diet and Feeding

Carnivorous, feeds on zooplankton in the water column, readily accepting small frozen foods like rotifers, baby brine shrimp, and mysis.

Behavior and Reproduction

A classic flasher wrasse where males perform dramatic flashing displays to court females or deter rival males.

Aquarium Care

Requires 30+ gallons with a tight lid, as they easily jump. It is completely reef-safe, peaceful, and an ideal resident for community reef aquariums.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.