How to Identify Rock Cook

To identify Rock Cook (Centrolabrus exoletus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Highly variable. Males are typically more brightly colored, especially during breeding, displaying shades of green, blue, and orange, often with iridescent spots and lines. Females and juveniles are generally duller, often brownish or greenish with darker mottling. A prominent dark spot is usually present at the base of the caudal fin. The dorsal fin often has a dark blotch anteriorly.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small, protractile mouth with small, conical teeth., Relatively slender body compared to other wrasses., Dark spot at the base of the caudal fin., Often a dark blotch on the anterior part of the dorsal fin.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 18-20 spines and 6-8 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Well-developed, rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size and Shape

   Small, slender body, typically not exceeding 12-15 cm in length.

2. 2

   Mouth

   Distinguishably small mouth, which is a key feature compared to other wrasse species.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Look for the variable but often vibrant green, blue, and orange hues, especially in males. The dark spot at the caudal fin base is a consistent marker.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   Observe the long dorsal fin with a prominent spiny section and often a dark blotch anteriorly.

5. 5

   Habitat

   Its presence in rocky, algal-rich shallow coastal waters is a strong indicator.

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