Halstead's Wrasse

Halstead’s Wrasse (Paracheilinus halsteadi) is a stunning flasher wrasse species admired for its brilliant coloration and spectacular display behavior. Males exhibit glowing shades of red, orange, and yellow along the body, accented by bold blue striping and elongated dorsal and caudal fin rays that they flare during courtship or when excited. Females and juveniles are more subdued, but still carry subtle striping and delicate coloration. This species reaches about 4 inches in adult size and is best housed in aquariums of at least 50 gallons, with plenty of rockwork for shelter, open swimming space, and a secure lid, as they are active jumpers. Peaceful by temperament, Halstead’s Wrasse is an excellent choice for reef tanks and will not harm corals or invertebrates. They thrive in groups with one male and multiple females, where the male will regularly display his flashing behavior. Diet should consist of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and finely chopped seafood, fed multiple times per day to suit their high activity levels.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3–10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.