McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse

Also known as McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse, Flasher Wrasse

McCosker’s Wrasse is a stunning and popular species displaying vibrant red-orange coloration with blue markings and elaborate finnage. This peaceful planktivore is one of the most commonly available and hardy flasher wrasses, making it an excellent choice for reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Paracheilinus mccoskeri
• Common Names: McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse, McCosker’s Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 3 inches
• Lifespan: 4-6 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and reef safe
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample live rock with caves and open swimming areas for displaying. Males need space to perform their flashing displays. Secure, tight-fitting lid is mandatory as these fish are known jumpers.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Stable water quality preferred
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Good filtration system
  • Moderate water flow

Diet & Feeding

McCosker’s Wrasses are carnivorous planktivores. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, cyclops, marine cuisine
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (beneficial for conditioning)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally eager feeders once acclimated; feed in water column

Notes & Considerations

• Males display a brilliant red-orange body with blue stripes and markings, plus extended dorsal fins.
• Spectacular flashing displays where fins are fully extended and colors intensify dramatically.
• Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates.
• Only one male per tank unless the system is very large (150+ gallons).
• Can be kept with females in harem arrangements.
• Excellent jumpers; ensure the aquarium has a secure lid with no gaps.
• One of the most popular and readily available flasher wrasses.
• Active throughout the day, especially during feeding and courtship.
• Generally disease-resistant when properly maintained.
• Hardy species are excellent for aquarists new to flasher wrasses.
• More affordable than many other flasher wrasse species.

Why Choose a Quarantined McCosker’s Flasher Wrasse?

Our quarantined specimens are carefully conditioned to accept prepared foods and observed for optimal health. This quarantine period ensures you receive a vibrant, hardy fish that’s ready to perform its spectacular flashing displays in your reef aquarium from day one.