Paracheilinus angulatus Randall & Lubbock, 1981
Angular flasher
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses)
Max. size:  7.5 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 10 - 40 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Philippines. Also reported from Indonesia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-11; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 9-9; Vertebrae: 25-25. Body and head orange; pale yellowish orange ventrally; head with 1-4 dark horizontal lines. Anterior dorsal rays not prolonged as filaments. Posterior soft portions of dorsal and anal fins angular. Predorsal scales 5. Lateral line interrupted (Ref. 2139). Seven violet to red stripes on body in life, the upper five extending full length of body; caudal fin of adult males emarginate (Ref. 41634).
Biology:  Biology unknown (Ref. 9710). Inhabits coastal and offshore reefs, rubble areas and low-profile coral patches (Ref. 90102). Found in sheltered reefs with rich coral and algae mix along upper parts of slopes. Occurs in small groups of mix sexes but females outnumber males greatly (Ref. 48636). Males attract females by flashing neon-like colors an hour before sunset (true for most Paracheilinus (Ref. 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 25 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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