Filament Wrasse (Allen, 1974)

 Scientific Name  Paracheilinus filamentosus
 Diet  Carnivore; zooplankton and small invertebrates
 Alt Common Name  Filamentus wrasse, Filamented flasher wrasse, Filament-fin wrasse
 Family  Labridae
 Origin  Pacific Ocean
 Aquarist Level  Intermediate
 Reef Safe  Yes
 Coloration  Red, Yellow, Orange and Blue with horizontal stripes
 Disposition  Nonaggressive
 Hardiness  Hardy
 Compatibility  Males aggressive within species. Peaceful with other families and wrasses.
 Mature Size  4 inches
 Sexual Dimorphism  Males have longer flasher filament on dorsal fin used in mating rituals

Notes: Wrasses are common members of the world's coral reefs.  They typically are carnivores feeding on small invertebrates that inhabit the reef.  Many have different appearances as adults than when juveniles.  And several others will display differences between males and females.

Wrasses should be provided with a number of hiding places.  Caves and crevices in the live rock make excellent places to hide.  A number of the wrasses also feel safe burying themselves in the sand for a nap or temporary disappearing act.