Paracheilinus carpenteri Randall & Lubbock, 1981
Pink flasher
Paracheilinus carpenteri
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses)
Max. size:  8 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 27 - 45 m
Distribution:  Western Pacific: Philippines, north to Taiwan and Iriomotejima, south to northern Bali and Flores (Ref. 37816). Recently recorded from Tonga (Ref. 53797). Replaced by Paracheilinus mccoskeri in the Indian Ocean (Ref. 37816).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-11; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 9-9; Vertebrae: 25-25. In males, color is generally orange (yellow- or red-orange); lower fourth of head and body pale yellow; 2-4 dorsal soft rays prolonged (every other ray beginning with first). Males larger and more colorful than females; color of males intensify during courtship. Female specimens light red, pale white ventrally. Median predorsal scales 4-6 (Ref. 2139). Penultimate dorsal soft ray of males 1.8-2.2 in HL; two short dark stripes beneath pectoral fin (Ref. 41634).
Biology:  Found on bases of steep outer reef slopes, above coral or rubble (Ref. 9710). Forms schools. Maximum depth reported from Ref. 27115.
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 25 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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