Come identificare Hovan's Wrasse

Per identificare Hovan's Wrasse (Halichoeres hovanus), osserva queste caratteristiche chiave.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

elongated

Colorazione

Males typically exhibit a vibrant green to blue-green body with irregular orange to reddish-brown markings or stripes along the flanks. The head may have intricate blue and orange patterns. Females are generally duller, often yellowish-brown to olive with less distinct markings, sometimes with a dark spot on the dorsal fin. Juveniles are often yellowish with a prominent black spot on the dorsal fin and a dark stripe along the lateral line.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Elongated body typical of wrasses., Terminal mouth with small, conical teeth., Distinctive color patterns that vary with sex and age., A prominent black spot on the dorsal fin of juveniles and sometimes females.

Pinna dorsale

Single, long dorsal fin with 9 spines and 11 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Pinna caudale

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Large, fan-like pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

Pelvic fins are relatively small. All fins are generally translucent or match the body coloration, sometimes with colored margins.

Consigli per l'identificazione

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the distinctive green/blue-green body with orange/reddish-brown markings in males. Females are more subdued, often yellowish. Juveniles have a prominent black dorsal spot and a lateral stripe.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Its elongated, torpedo-like body is characteristic of the Halichoeres genus.

3. 3

   Habitat

   Observe its behavior in sandy areas adjacent to coral or rocky reefs, as it frequently burrows.

4. 4

   Geographic Location

   Its restricted distribution to Madagascar and the Mascarene Islands is a key identifier.

Esplora Hovan's Wrasse