Fin's Fish Guide
The Belted wrasse (Stethojulis balteata) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The belted wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) endemic to the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm; males have conspicuous blue and orange lengthwise lines on a greenish body, while females are duller. It is benthopelagic and common in shallow water to about 22 m, over sand and algae-covered rocks, where it picks small invertebrates from the bottom quickly and rather indiscriminately. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Belted wrasse?
The Belted wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Male with blue and orange longitudinal lines; Hawaiian endemic and protogynous hermaphrodite.
Where does the Belted wrasse live?
The Belted wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Endemic around the Hawaiian Islands; shallow sand and reef rock.
How big does the Belted wrasse get?
The Belted wrasse grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Belted wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Belted wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Belted wrasse edible?
The Belted wrasse is not usually eaten.
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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 Belted wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Belted wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.