How to Identify Cuckoo Wrasse

To identify Cuckoo Wrasse (Labrus mixtus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Highly sexually dimorphic. Males are strikingly colored with bright blue, green, and orange patterns, often featuring intricate blue lines on the head and dorsal fin, and a prominent blue stripe along the lateral line. Females are typically reddish-orange to pinkish-brown with three distinct dark blotches or saddles along the back, which may be less pronounced in some individuals. Juveniles resemble females but are generally paler.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Pronounced sexual dimorphism in coloration, Elongated body with a pointed snout, Large, fleshy lips, Single, long dorsal fin with spiny and soft rays, Terminal mouth with conical teeth

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 16-19 spines and 11-14 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Male Coloration

   Look for the vibrant blue, green, and orange patterns, especially the blue lines on the head and dorsal fin, and the blue lateral line stripe. This is unmistakable.

2. 2

   Female Coloration

   Identify by the reddish-orange to pinkish-brown body with three distinct dark blotches or saddles along the back. These blotches are a key differentiator from other wrasse females.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   The elongated body and pointed snout are characteristic of this species.

4. 4

   Fin Structure

   The single, long dorsal fin with a prominent spiny anterior portion is a good indicator.

Explore Cuckoo Wrasse