Fin's Fish Guide
The Bird wrasse (Gomphosus caeruleus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The bird wrasse is a striking wrasse from the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 32 cm and has a strongly elongated, beak-like snout with which it picks prey from crevices and coral branches. Adult males are bright blue-green, females and juveniles brownish with a paler belly. It lives actively swimming on coral reefs and hunts small crustaceans, snails and small fish. Like other wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bird wrasse?
The Bird wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Beak-shaped snout for picking prey from coral; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Bird wrasse live?
The Bird wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Indian Ocean
How big does the Bird wrasse get?
The Bird wrasse grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the Bird wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Bird wrasse 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 Bird wrasse edible?
The Bird wrasse is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gomphosus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Bird wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bird wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.