Fin's Fish Guide
The Dapple coris (Coris variegata) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The dapple coris is a small wrasse from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate body with a mottled, red-brown to greenish colour pattern that changes with age. As a reef-dweller it searches over sand and rubble bottoms for small crustaceans and molluscs. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: fish begin as females and can later become males. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dapple coris?
The Dapple coris has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Blotched colour pattern that changes with age; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Dapple coris live?
The Dapple coris lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Dapple coris get?
The Dapple coris grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Dapple coris dangerous to humans?
No, the Dapple coris 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 Dapple coris edible?
The Dapple coris 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 Coris
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Dapple coris?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dapple coris is one of 12,519 species in the app.