Fin's Fish Guide
The Cigar wrasse (Cheilio inermis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The cigar wrasse is an elongate wrasse (family Labridae) of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a cigar-shaped, stretched body with a pointed snout; its colour varies greatly, from greenish or brown to yellowish. It inhabits seagrass beds and algal-covered flats and occasionally occurs on lagoon and seaward reefs down to at least 30 metres. It usually lives solitarily and hunts hard-shelled invertebrates by day. Like many wrasses it changes sex: younger females can later become males. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cigar wrasse?
The Cigar wrasse has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Cigar-shaped body with a pointed snout; highly variable colour; changes from female to male.
Where does the Cigar wrasse live?
The Cigar wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indian and Pacific Ocean, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii.
How big does the Cigar wrasse get?
The Cigar wrasse grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Cigar wrasse dangerous to humans?
The Cigar wrasse is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Cigar wrasse edible?
The Cigar wrasse is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Cigar wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cigar wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Cigar wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cigar wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.