How to Identify Blue-throated Wrasse

To identify Blue-throated Wrasse (Notolabrus tetricus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Males (terminal phase) are striking, with a dark blue to black head and throat, often with iridescent blue markings, contrasting with a reddish-brown to olive-green body. A prominent white or pale band often runs along the lateral line. Females (initial phase) and juveniles are typically mottled reddish-brown, olive-green, or grey, often with irregular darker blotches and a paler belly. They lack the distinct blue throat of the males. Coloration can vary geographically and with mood.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Pronounced sexual dimorphism, with males having a distinctive blue head and throat., Thick, fleshy lips., Large, canine-like teeth at the front of the jaws, followed by smaller conical teeth., A single continuous dorsal fin., Relatively large scales.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 9 spines and 11-12 soft rays. The spinous portion is typically lower than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively small and located ventrally.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Male Coloration

   Look for the distinctive dark blue to black head and throat, often with iridescent blue markings, contrasting with a reddish-brown body. A pale lateral line stripe is usually present.

2. 2

   Female/Juvenile Coloration

   Females and juveniles are more cryptically colored, typically mottled reddish-brown, olive-green, or grey with irregular darker blotches. They lack the blue throat.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Robust, compressed body typical of many wrasses.

4. 4

   Mouth and Teeth

   Fleshy lips and prominent canine teeth at the front of the jaws are characteristic of the genus Notolabrus.

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