Fin's Fish Guide
The Moon wrasse (Thalassoma hardwicke) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The sixbar wrasse is a colourful wrasse of the family Labridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a greenish body with six black, upward-narrowing crossbars and a pink-spotted head. It lives on shallow lagoon and seaward reefs, slopes and along drop-offs to moderate depths, usually in small, loose groups. As a predator it feeds on small crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. Like many wrasses it changes sex during life, from female to male, with large males more brightly coloured. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moon wrasse?
The Moon wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Six black vertical bars and a pink spotted head; changes sex during its life.
Where does the Moon wrasse live?
The Moon wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; shallow lagoon and seaward coral reefs.
How big does the Moon wrasse get?
The Moon wrasse grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Moon wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Moon wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Moon wrasse edible?
The Moon wrasse is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thalassoma
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Moon wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Moon wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.