The Schwatz's wrasse (Halichoeres papilionaceus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Schwartz's wrasse is a small wrasse from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an oblong, greenish to red-brown body with fine lines and spots that change with life stage. As a reef-dweller it searches over sand and rubble bottoms of shallow water for small crustaceans, molluscs and worms and buries itself in the sand when threatened. 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 Schwatz's wrasse?
The Schwatz's wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Schwatz's wrasse live?
The Schwatz's wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Schwatz's wrasse get?
The Schwatz's wrasse grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Schwatz's wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Schwatz's wrasse is harmless to humans.
Is the Schwatz's wrasse edible?
The Schwatz's wrasse is not usually eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Halichoeres
More from the family Labridae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.