Fin's Fish Guide
The Mental wrasse (Oxycheilinus mentalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Jordan, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan and others
Description
The Mental wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from the western Indian Ocean and Red Sea. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate body with a pointed snout. The green-grey body bears fine dotted lines and a streak behind the eye. As a bottom-oriented predator it searches coral and rocky reefs for small fish, crustaceans and molluscs. Like many wrasses it changes sex. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mental wrasse?
The Mental wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly green.
Where does the Mental wrasse live?
The Mental wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Jordan, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan and others
How big does the Mental wrasse get?
The Mental wrasse grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Mental wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Mental 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oxycheilinus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Mental wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mental wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.