Description
Also known as Maori Wrasse, Oriental Wrasse, Slender Maori Wrasse, Slender Wrasse, Thicklip Wrasse, Thickstripe Maori Wrasse.
Found singly often in the arms of the mushroom coral Heliofungia actiniformis amongst dense cover of algae, coral and rubble areas over deep slopes of coastal and outer reefs rich in algae growth.
They feed on crustaceans and fish.
Juveniles found in the arms of crinoids or around soft corals.
Length - 20cm
Depth - 10-80m
Widespread Indo-West Pacific
Most reef fish seen by divers during the day, are grazers, they cruise around, just above the surface of the coral, or snoop into crevices, foraging for food.
Wrasses have small protruding teeth, which they use to graze the bottom, taking in a variety of algae, crustaceans, such as crabs, eggs, shrimps, snails and worms. Any hard coats or thick shells, are then ground down by their pharyngeal jaws, and the delicacies inside digested.
From juvenile to adult, wrasses dramatically alter their colour and body shapes.
Wrasses are always on the go during the day, but are the first to go to bed and the last to rise.
Small wrasses dive below the sand to sleep, and larger wrasses wedge themselves in crevices. Ref: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/5601
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