Fin's Fish Guide
The Checkerboard wrasse (Halichoeres hartzfeldii) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
Hartzfeld's wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from the eastern Indian and western Pacific Ocean. The species has an elongate body with a yellow back and a paler underside, and a dark spot on the dorsal fin. It inhabits seaward reefs and prefers open expanses of sand or mixed sand, rubble and pavement. With its jaws it seeks small bottom invertebrates. Like many wrasses it is protogynous. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Checkerboard wrasse?
The Checkerboard wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Yellow back with a dark blotch on the dorsal fin; bottom-foraging wrasse of open sandy flats, protogynous.
Where does the Checkerboard wrasse live?
The Checkerboard wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Indian and western Pacific; seaward reefs.
How big does the Checkerboard wrasse get?
The Checkerboard wrasse grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Checkerboard wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Checkerboard wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Checkerboard wrasse edible?
The Checkerboard wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Checkerboard wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Checkerboard wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.