Bell’s Flasher Wrasse – LiveAquaria
The Bell’s Flasher Wrasse boasts intensely beautiful colors of Red, Orange, Yellow and Purple and/or Blue as a mature adult male. Also noticeable are four long dorsal rays and a prominent lyre-shaped tail. This fiery looking member of the Labridae family is found in deep water reefs and algal beds of the Western Central Pacific Ocean. The colors of the adult males intensify when in courtship, whereas the female coloration and overall appearance are more subdued. The females also do not feature the large dorsal and anal fins.
The Bell’s Flasher Wrasse requires a 55 gallon or larger established aquarium with a tight-fitting lid since it is a jumper. A mixed grouping of males and females (preferably in a ratio of one male to every two females) is acceptable and often recommended.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Coloration | Red, Orange, Yellow, Purple and/or Blue (males); subdued (females) |
| Dorsal Fins | Four long dorsal rays in males; smaller or absent in females |
| Tail Shape | Lyre-shaped |
| Habitat | Deep water reefs and algal beds in Western Central Pacific Ocean |
| Behavior | Active jumper; prefers mixed groups with 1 male per 2 females |
FAQ
What is the ideal tank size for a Bell’s Flasher Wrasse?
A 55 gallon or larger established aquarium is recommended.
Do males and females have similar appearances?
No, adult males display vibrant red, orange, yellow, purple, and blue colors, especially during courtship. Females have more subdued coloring and lack the large dorsal and anal fins.
Is the Bell’s Flasher Wrasse suitable for a community tank?
It can be kept in a mixed group with males and females, preferably in a ratio of one male to every two females. A tight-fitting lid is necessary due to its jumping behavior.
Alison Buckland –
The Bell’s Flasher Wrasse is a stunning addition to my reef tank. The male’s colors are vibrant and change dramatically during courtship. I have one male and two females, and they seem to get along well. The tank has a tight lid, which I’m glad I installed. It’s active but not aggressive, and the lyre-shaped tail is very eye-catching.
Neil Morrison –
I was impressed by how quickly the male developed its bright colors. The fish is active and enjoys moving around the reef. I keep it with two females and have noticed the males are more colorful when they’re near the females. The jumping behavior requires a secure lid, which I have now installed.
Nicola Vance –
This wrasse has become the centerpiece of my 75-gallon tank. The colors are vivid and the tail shape is unique. I followed the recommended male-to-female ratio and it has worked well. The fish is healthy and seems to be adjusting well to the environment.