Fin's Fish Guide
The Dotted maori (Cheilinus chlorourus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 45 cm.
Indo-Pacific; lagoon and coastal reefs with mixed sand, rubble and coral.
Description
The floral wrasse is a robust wrasse of the family Labridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a brownish to greenish body densely studded with small white spots, with a floral pattern on the head. Adults inhabit lagoon and coastal reefs in areas with mixed sand, rubble and coral. As a predator it crushes hard-shelled prey such as molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins with powerful jaws. Like many wrasses it changes sex during life, from female to male. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dotted maori?
The Dotted maori has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Densely scattered with white spots and a flower-like head pattern; changes sex during its life.
Where does the Dotted maori live?
The Dotted maori lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; lagoon and coastal reefs with mixed sand, rubble and coral.
How big does the Dotted maori get?
The Dotted maori grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Dotted maori dangerous to humans?
No, the Dotted maori is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dotted maori edible?
The Dotted maori is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilinus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Dotted maori?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dotted maori is one of 12,519 species in the app.