Fin's Fish Guide
The Saddle wrasse (Thalassoma duperrey) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The saddle wrasse occurs only around the Hawaiian Islands in the central Pacific, where it is one of the most common reef fishes. The species grows to about 28 cm and has a blue-green body with a conspicuous orange to red band behind the head, the 'saddle'. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: fish begin life as females and can later change into males. It feeds on small invertebrates on the reef. The IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Saddle wrasse?
The Saddle wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Blue-green body with an orange-red nape band ('saddle'); protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Saddle wrasse live?
The Saddle wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Hawaii (endemic)
How big does the Saddle wrasse get?
The Saddle wrasse grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Saddle wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Saddle 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.
Is the Saddle wrasse edible?
The Saddle 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 Saddle wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Saddle wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.