Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluehead wrasse (Thalassoma bifasciatum) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Western Atlantic and the Caribbean, near coral reefs and seagrass beds of shallow coastal water.
Description
The bluehead wrasse is a small, colourful coral-reef fish of the family Labridae (wrasses) reaching about 25 cm. The colour varies strongly by life stage: young and female fish are yellow or white, sometimes with a dark stripe, while the large 'terminal male' has a bright-blue head separated from the green body by two black bands. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as females and may later turn into a dominant male. The species lives near coral reefs and seagrass beds of shallow coastal water in the Caribbean and western Atlantic. It eats zooplankton and small invertebrates; young fish clean parasites off larger fish. It is one of the most studied reef fishes.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluehead wrasse?
The Bluehead wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small, colourful coral reef fish with strongly varying colour phases; the large 'terminal male' has a blue head behind two black bands.
Where does the Bluehead wrasse live?
The Bluehead wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and the Caribbean, near coral reefs and seagrass beds of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Bluehead wrasse get?
The Bluehead wrasse grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Bluehead wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Bluehead wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bluehead wrasse edible?
The Bluehead wrasse is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Thalassoma
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Bluehead wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluehead wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.