Fin's Fish Guide
The Painted Wrasse (Halichoeres caudalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean; deeper seaward reefs and sandy sections.
Description
The painted wrasse is a wrasse of the family Labridae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a greenish to pink body with fine lines; adult males are more handsomely marked than females. It inhabits deeper seaward reefs and the sandy areas around them. As a bottom predator it feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and molluscs. Owing to its modest size the species is of little fishery interest. Like many wrasses it changes sex during life, from female to male, and dives into the sand when threatened. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Painted Wrasse?
The Painted Wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Finely lined green and pink body; changes sex during its life and dives into the sand when threatened.
Where does the Painted Wrasse live?
The Painted Wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; deeper seaward reefs and sandy sections.
How big does the Painted Wrasse get?
The Painted Wrasse grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Painted Wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Painted Wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Painted Wrasse edible?
The Painted Wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Halichoeres
More from the family Labridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Painted Wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.