Fin's Fish Guide
The Point-head maori (Cheilinus oxycephalus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The snooty wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species has an elongate, red-brown mottled body that camouflages it among coral and rock. It lives concealed in coral-rich parts of lagoon and seaward reefs, from shallow to well over forty metres depth. With its jaws it seeks small crustaceans, molluscs and other bottom invertebrates. 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 Point-head maori?
The Point-head maori has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a marbled pattern. Red-brown marbled camouflage; secretive reef-dweller, protogynous.
Where does the Point-head maori live?
The Point-head maori lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Point-head maori get?
The Point-head maori grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Point-head maori dangerous to humans?
No, the Point-head maori is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Point-head maori edible?
The Point-head maori is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Point-head maori?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Point-head maori is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilinus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Point-head maori?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Point-head maori is one of 12,519 species in the app.