Fin's Fish Guide
The Western king wrasse (Coris auricularis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Western king wrasse is a wrasse (Labridae) from coastal waters of western Australia. The species grows to about 40 cm. It has an elongate, red-grey body with a pale lengthwise band and a black pectoral-fin spot. As a bottom-oriented hunter it searches sand and reef bottoms for molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins; when threatened or at night it dives into the sand. Like many wrasses it changes sex and colour. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Western king wrasse?
The Western king wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Western king wrasse live?
The Western king wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Western king wrasse get?
The Western king wrasse grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Western king wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Western king 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Coris
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Western king wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Western king wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.