The Eight Line Flasher Wrasse, Paracheilinus octotaenia, Like other species, juveniles and adults feature vastly different coloration patterns and body types. The juvenile Eight Line Flasher Wrasse is a pink/blue color with colored horizontal lines across its body. Juveniles also feature elaborate striping around the eyes creating a beautiful mask. As they mature into adults, the Eight Line Flasher Wrasse keeps its characteristic eight blue horizontal lines but changes to a more orange/red body. Its dorsal, anal, and caudal fins flare out and the beautiful mask is mostly retained. 

Eight Line Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus octotaenia): A Comprehensive Guide

The Eight Line Flasher Wrasse, also known as the Eightstripe Flasher Wrasse or Eightline Fairy Wrasse, is a captivating marine fish species highly sought by saltwater aquarium enthusiasts for its striking appearance and engaging behavior. Below is a comprehensive guide covering various aspects of keeping this species in a home aquarium.

Species Overview

The Eight Line Flasher Wrasse, also known as the Eightstripe Flasher Wrasse or Eightline Fairy Wrasse, is native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the coral-rich waters of the western Pacific Ocean. It belongs to the Labridae family and is characterized by its vibrant colors and elongated body shape.

Habitat

In the wild, the Eight Line Flasher Wrasse inhabits coral reefs and lagoons, typically in areas with moderate to strong water currents. They prefer plenty of hiding spots among coral branches and rocky formations.

Reef Compatibility

This species is considered reef-safe, posing minimal threat to corals and other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised with small ornamental shrimps, as the Eight Line Flasher Wrasse may view them as potential prey.

Size and Lifespan

The Eight Line Flasher Wrasse typically grows to a maximum size of around 5 inches in captivity. They can live for up to 5 years or more with proper care.

Diet in Captivity

In the aquarium environment, the diet of the Eight Line Flasher Wrasse should consist of a variety of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality flake or pellet foods formulated for marine fish. Offering a diverse diet is essential to ensuring proper nutrition and health.

Aquaculture Availability

While wild-caught specimens are sometimes available, aquacultured Eight Line Flasher Wrasses are increasingly becoming available to hobbyists. Aquacultured specimens are generally considered more environmentally sustainable and often adapt better to aquarium life.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates

The Eight Line Flasher Wrasse is generally peaceful towards other fish species but may exhibit territorial behavior towards its kind. It is compatible with many reef-safe fish and invertebrates, making it a suitable addition to most community aquariums.

Sexual Dimorphism and Coloration Changes

Juvenile Eight-Line Flasher Wrasses exhibit different coloration from adults. Juveniles typically display duller coloration with less defined stripes compared to the vibrant colors and distinct eight lines seen in adults. Additionally, males display more intense coloration and elongated fins than females.

Temperament

This species is known for its active and curious behavior, often darting in and out of rock crevices and displaying vibrant color patterns during courtship displays. It is generally peaceful but may exhibit territorial behavior towards conspecifics or similar-looking species.

Tank Requirements

Minimum Aquarium Size: A tank size of at least 50 gallons is recommended for housing a single Eight Line Flasher Wrasse. Larger tanks provide more swimming space and allow for better territorial management.

Water Conditions:

• pH: 8.1 to 8.4
• Salinity: 1.023 to 1.025
• Water Temperature: 72°F to 78°F
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong water flow mimicking natural reef conditions.

Other Common Names

Eightstripe Flasher Wrasse
Eightline Fairy Wrasse

Compatible Tank Mates

• Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto)
• Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica)
• Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus)
• Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni)
• Orchid Dottyback (Pseudochromis fridmani)

Why Buy from Saltwaterfish.com

Saltwaterfish.com is committed to providing hobbyists with high-quality marine fish and invertebrates. With a strong emphasis on sustainable aquaculture and ethical collection practices, Saltwaterfish.com offers a wide selection of healthy livestock backed by its Live Arrival Guarantee. Additionally, its knowledgeable staff provides excellent customer service and support to ensure a successful aquarium-keeping experience.

In conclusion, the Eight Line Flasher Wrasse is a stunning and captivating addition to any saltwater aquarium. With its vibrant colors, engaging behavior, and reef-safe nature, this species brings life and beauty to marine environments, making it a favorite among hobbyists.