Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackback wrasse (Anampses neoguinaicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The blackback wrasse is a wrasse from the Western Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a white body with a black back and black fins and fine black streaks; juveniles are marked differently. As a reef-dweller it searches over reef and rubble bottoms with its projecting teeth for small crustaceans and invertebrates. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackback wrasse?
The Blackback wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. White body with a black back; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Blackback wrasse live?
The Blackback wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
How big does the Blackback wrasse get?
The Blackback wrasse grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Blackback wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackback 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 Blackback wrasse edible?
The Blackback wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anampses
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackback wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackback wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.