Fin's Fish Guide
The Biglip damsel (Cheiloprion labiatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The big-lip damsel is a small damselfish from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a stocky, dark-brown body with conspicuously thick, fleshy lips. Remarkably, it feeds mainly on the polyps of living branching coral, which it bites off with its lips. It is strongly tied to coral-rich shallow reefs. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Biglip damsel?
The Biglip damsel has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly thick lips; eats polyps of living branching coral
Where does the Biglip damsel live?
The Biglip damsel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Biglip damsel get?
The Biglip damsel grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Biglip damsel dangerous to humans?
No, the Biglip damsel 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.
Is the Biglip damsel edible?
The Biglip damsel is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Biglip damsel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Biglip damsel is one of 12,519 species in the app.