Moon Wrasse and Similar Species
Thalassoma lunare
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Moon Wrasse. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Green Wrasse
Thalassoma hardwicke
Key differences: Thalassoma hardwicke has a more truncated or slightly emarginate caudal fin, not deeply lunate. It also typically displays 5-6 dark vertical bars or blotches along its flanks, which are absent in T. lunare.
Sixbar Wrasse
Thalassoma purpureum
Key differences: Thalassoma purpureum has a more robust body and a less pronounced lunate caudal fin. Its coloration often includes more purplish hues and distinct vertical bars, especially in males, which differ from the more uniform green of T. lunare males.
Surge Wrasse
Thalassoma surmanum
Key differences: Thalassoma surmanum has a more rounded or slightly emarginate caudal fin and typically exhibits a series of dark spots or blotches along the lateral line, which are not characteristic of T. lunare.
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