Fin's Fish Guide
The Banda wrasse (Stethojulis bandanensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Indo-Pacific (eastern Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean); shallow reef flats.
Description
The red-shoulder wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm; males have a conspicuous orange-red spot above the pectoral fin, to which the name refers, and blue lines on the head, while females are duller. It lives in shallow, clear water of reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs, in areas of mixed sand, rubble and coral. It is usually solitary or in small groups and forages on small benthic invertebrates. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite, in which females can change into males. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banda wrasse?
The Banda wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Male with an orange-red shoulder blotch and blue head lines; protogynous hermaphrodite.
Where does the Banda wrasse live?
The Banda wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific (eastern Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean); shallow reef flats.
How big does the Banda wrasse get?
The Banda wrasse grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Banda wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Banda wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banda wrasse edible?
The Banda wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Banda wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banda wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stethojulis
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Banda wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banda wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.