Fin's Fish Guide
The Spinster wrasse (Halichoeres nicholsi) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 38 cm.
Description
The spinster wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from the eastern Pacific. The species changes colour strongly with age; adult males are green with a black blotch and yellow tints. It lives over sand and gravel bottoms near coral reefs; adults are solitary, while juveniles form aggregations. With its jaw teeth it picks small invertebrates from the bottom and cracks hard-shelled prey. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spinster wrasse?
The Spinster wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Strong colour change with age; picks invertebrates and crushes prey on sandy bottoms near reefs.
Where does the Spinster wrasse live?
The Spinster wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; sand and gravel bottoms near coral reefs.
How big does the Spinster wrasse get?
The Spinster wrasse grows to a maximum of about 38 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Spinster wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Spinster wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spinster wrasse edible?
The Spinster wrasse is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Spinster wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spinster wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Spinster wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spinster wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.