Fin's Fish Guide
The Cryptic wrasse (Pteragogus cryptus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The cryptic wrasse is a small wrasse from the Indo-West Pacific, including the Red Sea. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an oblong, brown to red-brown mottled body that blends in well among weed and seagrass. As a shy reef-dweller it keeps hidden among vegetation and searches for small crustaceans and invertebrates. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cryptic wrasse?
The Cryptic wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Marbled camouflage among seaweeds; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Cryptic wrasse live?
The Cryptic wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Cryptic wrasse get?
The Cryptic wrasse grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Cryptic wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Cryptic 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 Cryptic wrasse edible?
The Cryptic wrasse is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pteragogus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Cryptic wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cryptic wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.