Fin's Fish Guide
The African coris (Coris atlantica) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The African coris is a wrasse (Labridae) from coastal waters of the eastern Atlantic, off West Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, colourful body that changes greatly with age, with green, blue and orange tints and lines. As a bottom-oriented fish it swims over sand and reef bottoms and crushes molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins with strong teeth; at night it dives into the sand. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African coris?
The African coris has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly multicoloured.
Where does the African coris live?
The African coris lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Cape Verde, Liberia, Sao Tome Princ., Senegal, Sierra Leone
How big does the African coris get?
The African coris grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the African coris dangerous to humans?
No, the African coris is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Coris
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the African coris?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African coris is one of 12,519 species in the app.