Cheilinus chlorourus (Floral wrasse)

Identification

Highly variable in color, from orange/brown to green/brown, usually with prominent horizontal rows of white to pink dots, white blotches on the back and tail base. It lives solitary.

Status

Least concern on the IUCN Red list.

Habitat

Indo-Pacific: East Africa to the Marquesan and Tuamoto islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to New Caledonia and Rapa. Adults inhabit lagoon and coastal reefs, in areas with mixed sand, rubble, and coral. Occasionally in grassy areas. The live in a depth range of 1-30 meters.

Reproduction

Oviparous breeding. Distinctive pairing during breeding.

Size

Up to 45cm.

Prey / Predation

Feeds mainly on mollusks and crustaceans.

Special features