Fin's Fish Guide
The Anchor trunkfish (Choerodon anchorago) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Indo-West Pacific; reef flats and lagoon reefs with seagrass and mixed bottom.
Description
The orange-dotted tuskfish is a robust wrasse of the family Labridae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a stocky body, dark in front and paler behind, with a pale, anchor-shaped mark mid-flank; adults bear prominent, projecting canine teeth ('tusks'). It inhabits reef flats and lagoon reefs in areas with seagrass or mixed sand, rubble and coral. With its powerful jaws and teeth it crushes hard-shelled prey such as molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins, sometimes by smashing them against rock. Like many wrasses it changes sex, from female to male. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Anchor trunkfish?
The Anchor trunkfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Pale anchor-shaped flank blotch and projecting canine teeth; crushes hard-shelled prey and changes sex.
Where does the Anchor trunkfish live?
The Anchor trunkfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; reef flats and lagoon reefs with seagrass and mixed bottom.
How big does the Anchor trunkfish get?
The Anchor trunkfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Anchor trunkfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Anchor trunkfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Anchor trunkfish edible?
Yes, the Anchor trunkfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Choerodon
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Anchor trunkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Anchor trunkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.