Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackspotted wrasse (Macropharyngodon meleagris) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The leopard wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a white to greenish body densely studded with dark, eye-shaped spots, to which the name refers; males and females differ greatly in colour. It inhabits subtidal reef flats and outer lagoon and seaward reefs, usually in areas with a mix of sand, rubble and coral. It feeds on small, hard-shelled invertebrates such as snails and foraminifera. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite and buries in the sand at night. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackspotted wrasse?
The Blackspotted wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a spots pattern. Densely scattered with eye-shaped blotches; protogynous hermaphrodite that buries itself at night.
Where does the Blackspotted wrasse live?
The Blackspotted wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; reef flats and lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Blackspotted wrasse get?
The Blackspotted wrasse grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Blackspotted wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackspotted wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackspotted wrasse edible?
The Blackspotted wrasse is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Macropharyngodon
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackspotted wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackspotted wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.