Fin's Fish Guide
The Tubelip wrasse (Labrichthys unilineatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The tubelip wrasse is a wrasse from the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to Micronesia and Samoa. The species grows to about 18 cm and has thick, fleshy lips that form a tube when the mouth is closed, from which it takes its name. Juveniles are brownish with blue-white stripes, males more vividly coloured. With those tube lips it sucks mucus and polyps from corals, especially staghorn Acropora. Like other wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tubelip wrasse?
The Tubelip wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Thick tubular lips; eats coral polyps and coral mucus; protogynous hermaphrodite
Where does the Tubelip wrasse live?
The Tubelip wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Tubelip wrasse get?
The Tubelip wrasse grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Tubelip wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Tubelip 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 Tubelip wrasse edible?
The Tubelip wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Tubelip wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tubelip wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.