Fin's Fish Guide
The Rock wrasse (Halichoeres semicinctus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The rock wrasse is a wrasse of the family Labridae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 38 cm; females are brownish, while large males show a blue-green body with a conspicuous orange-yellow band behind the head. It lives close to rocks near sand patches and in tide pools. When threatened or at night it dives into the sand in a flash to shelter or rest. As a bottom predator it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, sea urchins and polychaete worms. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: it begins as a female and the largest individuals become males. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rock wrasse?
The Rock wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dives into the sand when threatened; protogynous hermaphrodite, males with an orange-yellow band behind the head.
Where does the Rock wrasse live?
The Rock wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; close to rocks near sand flats and tide pools.
How big does the Rock wrasse get?
The Rock wrasse grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Rock wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Rock wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rock wrasse edible?
The Rock wrasse is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Rock wrasse?
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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
Want the complete picture on the Rock wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rock wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.