Blacksaddle wrasse
📖 Overview
Blacksaddle wrasse (Halichoeres gurrobyi) is a ray-finned fish of the family Labridae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 7.2 cm. It occurs at depths between 12 and 22 metres. With a trophic level of 3.3, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 11. This species is distinguished by the following characters: D IX,11 (12); A nal-fin rays III,11; pectoral-fin rays 13; lateral-line scales 27 (+1 on caudal-fin base), single small pore per scale; suborbital pores 6-7; gill rakers 19-21; each jaw with a single pair of large, projecting, and slightly recurved canine teeth located anteriorly, the lowers curving forward and fitting between uppers when mouth closed, second canines about half size of first, followed by rows of mostly caniniform teeth, without canine posteriorly at corner of mouth; body elongated, body depth 4.5-5.0 in SL; body width 1.7-2.3 in depth; caudal fin is slightly rounded to truncate in IP. Colouration: color pattern of IP with yellow stripes on a pale background, on holotype three lateral stripes and a fourth along dorsal-fin base, on paratype two midlateral stripes plus dorsalfin base stripe; large black blotch on caudal peduncle and caudal-fin base, saddle-like in paratype and larger specimens; a small black spot at upper rim of pectoral-fin base; fins translucent except yellow band along distal dorsal fin and posterior margin of caudal fin. Colouration of TP male unknown .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Blacksaddle wrasse is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Blacksaddle wrasse is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Blacksaddle wrasse is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 12 - 22 m . Tropical Indian Ocean: Mauritius.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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