How to Identify Saddle Wrasse

To identify Saddle Wrasse (Thalassoma duperrey), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Initial phase (females and juvenile males) are typically green to greenish-brown dorsally, fading to white or pale green ventrally. A prominent dark reddish-brown to black saddle-like blotch is present on the upper flank, extending onto the dorsal fin. Terminal phase males are more brightly colored, often with a blue-green body, a distinct orange-red band or blotch behind the pectoral fin, and a blue head with irregular pink or red markings. The caudal fin can be blue with red margins.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent dark saddle-like blotch on the upper flank, extending onto the dorsal fin (characteristic of both initial and terminal phases, though more pronounced in initial phase)., Elongated body with a pointed snout., Terminal phase males exhibit vibrant blue-green and orange-red coloration with distinctive head markings.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 8 spines and 13 soft rays. The spinous portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin in initial phase, becoming more lunate or slightly emarginate with elongated lobes in terminal phase males.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins, typically with 13 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small and located thoracically.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Saddle Mark

   Look for the distinctive dark reddish-brown to black saddle-like blotch on the upper flank, just below the dorsal fin. This is present in all life stages.

2. 2

   Coloration (Initial Phase)

   Initial phase individuals are generally greenish-brown with a paler belly and the prominent saddle mark.

3. 3

   Coloration (Terminal Phase)

   Terminal phase males are much more colorful, with a blue-green body, an orange-red band behind the pectoral fin, and blue heads with pink/red markings. The caudal fin often has blue and red hues.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Its elongated, torpedo-like body and pointed snout are characteristic of the genus Thalassoma.

Explore Saddle Wrasse