Cheekspot wrasse
📖 Overview
Common around patches of rubble or mixed rubble and coral along steep drop-offs at 10-56 m depth . Feeds on benthic invertebrates .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 12; Vertebrae: 25. Fresh male specimens reddish brown dorsally, reddish ventrally; head with green bands; upper opercle with a large blue-edged black spot, rimmed with blue and red; 3 succession of spots behind eye. Large females may be similar in color with males but with a black spot on branched caudal rays; smaller ones have 3 black spots on dorsal fin base. Anterior lateral line scales with 2-7 pores, more in larger adults; 9-13 suborbital pores. Pelvic fins reaching or nearly reaching anus in large adults.: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Cheekspot wrasse is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Cheekspot wrasse is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Distinct pairing during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 10 - 56 m , usually 33 - ? m . Tropical; 19°N - 25°S Indian Ocean to the Marquesas and Pitcairn islands.
🌿 Ecology
benthic invertebrates (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Halichoeres Melasmapomus is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked — Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.5 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 155 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Cheekspot wrasse has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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