The Brownspotted wrasse (Notolabrus parilus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 41 cm.
Description
The brownspotted wrasse is a wrasse from the waters of southern Australia, ranging from Victoria and South Australia to southern Western Australia. The species grows to about 41 cm and has a streamlined body with a pattern of brown spots. It lives on rocky reefs in temperate coastal water and feeds on benthic invertebrates, which it crushes with its strong jaws. Like many wrasses the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, starting as a female and later able to change into a male. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brownspotted wrasse?
The Brownspotted wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pattern of brown blotches; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Brownspotted wrasse live?
The Brownspotted wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Southern Australia
How big does the Brownspotted wrasse get?
The Brownspotted wrasse grows to a maximum of about 41 cm.
Is the Brownspotted wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Brownspotted 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 Brownspotted wrasse edible?
The Brownspotted wrasse is rarely eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Notolabrus
More from the family Labridae

Want the complete picture on the Brownspotted wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brownspotted wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.