How to Identify Red-banded Wrasse

To identify Red-banded Wrasse (Halichoeres chierchiae), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Initial phase (IP) individuals, often females and juveniles, typically display a reddish-brown to olive-green body with several prominent, irregular dark blotches or bands along the flanks. A distinctive dark spot is often present on the caudal peduncle and sometimes on the dorsal fin. Terminal phase (TP) males are more brightly colored, often exhibiting a greenish-blue body with iridescent blue or green markings on the head and fins, and a prominent red or orange band running horizontally along the mid-body, sometimes broken into spots. The caudal fin can be yellowish to reddish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Sexual dichromatism (distinct color differences between sexes and life phases), Elongated body typical of Halichoeres wrasses, Small, protractile mouth with prominent canine teeth at the front of both jaws

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 9 spines and 11-12 soft rays. Spines are flexible.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively small.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration (Initial Phase)

   Look for reddish-brown to olive-green body with irregular dark blotches or bands, and a dark spot on the caudal peduncle.

2. 2

   Coloration (Terminal Phase)

   Observe for greenish-blue body with iridescent markings, a prominent red or orange horizontal band, and a yellowish to reddish caudal fin.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Note the elongated, torpedo-like body typical of Halichoeres wrasses.

4. 4

   Geographic Location

   Confirm presence within its known Eastern Pacific range.

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