Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese wrasse (Pseudolabrus japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Japanese wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from the northwestern Pacific. The species has an elongate, red-brown body with pale spots and streaks. It lives on rocky and mixed bottoms of coastal waters and retires under low rock ledges at night. With its jaws it seeks small bottom animals such as crustaceans, molluscs and worms. Like many wrasses it is protogynous: females can change into males. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese wrasse?
The Japanese wrasse has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Red-brown with pale blotches; shelters under rock ledges at night, protogynous.
Where does the Japanese wrasse live?
The Japanese wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Pacific; rocky and mixed coastal bottoms.
How big does the Japanese wrasse get?
The Japanese wrasse grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Japanese wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Japanese wrasse edible?
Yes, the Japanese wrasse is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudolabrus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.