How to Identify Sunset Wrasse

To identify Sunset Wrasse (Thalassoma grammaticum), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Initial phase (IP) individuals are typically greenish-brown to reddish-brown dorsally, fading to lighter ventral surfaces, often with irregular dark blotches or bars. Terminal phase (TP) males are much more brightly colored, exhibiting a complex pattern of green, blue, yellow, and orange. The head often has intricate blue or green lines, and the body can display vertical bars or blotches of contrasting colors. A prominent dark spot is often present on the operculum. Coloration can vary geographically.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, fusiform body, Continuous dorsal fin, Forked caudal fin, Small, protractile mouth with prominent canine teeth, Complex and variable color patterns, especially in terminal phase males

Dorsal fin

Continuous, with 8 spines and 13 soft rays. Spines are flexible.

Tail fin

Slightly forked to emarginate, often with elongated outer rays in larger males.

Pectoral fin

Large and fan-like, used for propulsion.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located directly below the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for the characteristic elongated, torpedo-shaped body typical of Thalassoma wrasses.

2. 2

   Coloration (Terminal Phase Male)

   The intricate pattern of green, blue, yellow, and orange, especially the blue or green lines on the head and the often barred or blotched body, is a key identifier. A dark spot on the operculum is frequently present.

3. 3

   Coloration (Initial Phase)

   Initial phase individuals are more subdued, often greenish-brown with irregular dark markings. Distinguishing them from other Thalassoma IP individuals can be more challenging without close examination of fin ray counts and specific markings.

4. 4

   Caudal Fin

   The slightly forked to emarginate caudal fin, which can have elongated outer rays in larger males, is a useful feature.

5. 5

   Geographic Range

   Its presence exclusively in the Eastern Pacific helps narrow down identification.

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