Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted-tail rainbowfish (Halichoeres trimaculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The threespot wrasse is a wrasse of the family Labridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 27 cm and has a greenish body with reddish lines on the head; adult males bear a conspicuous dark blotch on the tail base, and juveniles have a few dark spots on the back. It inhabits sandy parts of reef flats, lagoons and semi-protected seaward reefs. As a bottom predator it feeds on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and molluscs. 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 Spotted-tail rainbowfish?
The Spotted-tail rainbowfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Dark blotch on the caudal peduncle in males; changes sex during its life and dives into the sand when threatened.
Where does the Spotted-tail rainbowfish live?
The Spotted-tail rainbowfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; sandy parts of reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs.
How big does the Spotted-tail rainbowfish get?
The Spotted-tail rainbowfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Spotted-tail rainbowfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted-tail rainbowfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted-tail rainbowfish edible?
The Spotted-tail rainbowfish is rarely 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
Want the complete picture on the Spotted-tail rainbowfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted-tail rainbowfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.