Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluelined wrasse (Stethojulis albovittata) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The bluelined wrasse is a small wrasse (Labridae) from the western Indian Ocean. The species reaches about 14 cm; males have a green-blue body with conspicuous light-blue lateral lines, while females are more inconspicuous brown-grey. It inhabits reef flats and clear lagoon and seaward reefs, where it lives singly or in small harem groups of one male with a few females. The diet consists of small invertebrates, especially crustaceans and molluscs. Like many wrasses the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, beginning as a female and later able to change into a male.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluelined wrasse?
The Bluelined wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Lives in small harem groups (one male, a few females); protogynous, the male with blue lines.
Where does the Bluelined wrasse live?
The Bluelined wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Indian Ocean, on reef flats and lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Bluelined wrasse get?
The Bluelined wrasse grows to a maximum of about 14 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Bluelined wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Bluelined wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bluelined wrasse edible?
Yes, the Bluelined wrasse is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bluelined wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluelined 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 Stethojulis
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Bluelined wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluelined wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.