Fin's Fish Guide
The African rainbow wrasse (Coris julis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Mediterranean rainbow wrasse is a slender reef fish of the family Labridae reaching about 30 cm. It is known for its strong colour differences: males bear an orange-red zigzag stripe along the flank, while females and juveniles show a white lateral stripe. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite, with females changing into males; all large individuals are male. The rainbow wrasse lives among rocks in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic, usually between 1 and 60 m, feeding on small snails, sea urchins, shrimps and worms. When frightened or at night the fish quickly buries itself in the sand.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African rainbow wrasse?
The African rainbow wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender wrasse with strong colour differences between life stages; males with an orange-red zigzag stripe, females and juveniles with a white lateral stripe. Buries itself in the sand at night.
Where does the African rainbow wrasse live?
The African rainbow wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic from Sweden to Gabon; the entire Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the African rainbow wrasse get?
The African rainbow wrasse grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the African rainbow wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the African rainbow wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African rainbow wrasse edible?
The African rainbow wrasse is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the African rainbow wrasse and live in the same waters.
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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 rainbow wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African rainbow wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.