Threespot wrasse
📖 Overview
Inhabits sandy areas of reef flats, lagoons, and semi-protected seaward reefs. Juveniles shallow in protected coastal waters; adults to about 30 m depth . Feeds on sand and rubble dwelling invertebrates (crustaceans, mollusks, forams, polychaetes, fish eggs, and small fishes). Has the habit of following sand-disturbing fishes such as goatfishes in order to intercept escaping prey. Minimum depth reported taken from Ref. 30874.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 10 - 11. Light greenish to yellowish on back, white below; scale rims pink to blackish; a black spot is at the upper base of the pectoral fin; another black spot about equal to eye diameter is at the upper base of the caudal peduncle.: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Threespot wrasse is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Threespot wrasse is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Bi-directional sex change has been confirmed for this species . Distinct pairing during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 2 - 30 m , usually 2 - 18 m . Tropical; 30°N - 32°S north to south Japan, south to Lord Howe Island.
🌿 Ecology
sand and rubble dwelling invertebrates (crustaceans, mollusks, forams, polychaetes, fish eggs, and s
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Threespot wrasse 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 | 18.6 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 141 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Threespot wrasse has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guentheria vestalis | Whitley | 1958 | Synonym |
| Julis auritus | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Julis spilurus | Bleeker | 1851 | Synonym |
| Julis trimaculata | Quoy & Gaimard | 1834 | Synonym |
| Platyglossus vicinus | Günther | 1909 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 28 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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