How to Identify Slingjaw Wrasse

To identify Slingjaw Wrasse (Epibulus insidiator), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Highly variable and sexually dimorphic. Juveniles are typically brown or greenish-brown with white bars. Adult females are often yellowish-brown to reddish-brown. Adult males are more striking, often dark brown to black with a bright orange or yellow head, and sometimes a white bar behind the pectoral fin. Some males can be entirely yellow or orange. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins often have blue margins.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Extremely protrusible mouth, capable of extending forward by up to 65% of its head length., Large, thick lips., Deep, compressed body., Sexual dimorphism and dichromatism.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 9-10 spines and 9-11 soft rays. The spinous portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively small. Anal fin has 3 spines and 8-9 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Protrusion

   The most definitive feature is its highly protrusible mouth, which can extend dramatically forward. This is often observed during feeding or when the fish is startled.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   Observe the color. Juveniles are brown with white bars. Adult females are generally duller (brownish-yellow to reddish-brown). Adult males are typically darker with a bright orange or yellow head, or sometimes entirely yellow/orange. The blue fin margins are also a good indicator.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Its deep, compressed body shape is characteristic of many wrasses, but combined with the mouth, it's unique.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults can reach a significant size, up to 54 cm (21 inches), which helps distinguish them from smaller wrasse species.

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