Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackear wrasse (Halichoeres poeyi) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The blackear wrasse is a wrasse of the family Labridae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a greenish body with fine lines and a dark spot behind the eye. It is most commonly found in clear seagrass beds and on reef flats. As a bottom predator it feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans, molluscs and worms. Like many wrasses it changes sex during life, from female to male, and dives into the sand when threatened or at night. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackear wrasse?
The Blackear wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Greenish with a small dark spot behind the eye; seagrass dweller that changes sex and dives into the sand.
Where does the Blackear wrasse live?
The Blackear wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; clear seagrass beds and reef flats.
How big does the Blackear wrasse get?
The Blackear wrasse grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Blackear wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackear wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackear wrasse edible?
The Blackear wrasse is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Blackear wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackear 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 Halichoeres
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackear wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackear wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.