Polynesian wrasse
📖 Overview
Found well above the bottom of exposed seaward reefs away from lagoons and sheltered bays . Feeds on small invertebrates .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 12; Vertebrae: 25. This species is distinguished from its congeners by the following characters: body elongate with greatest body depth 22.6-25.3% SL; D IX,11; A III,12; pectoral-fin rays 13; tubed lateral-line scales 28. Colouration: interspinous membrane between anterior two to three spines of dorsal fin has a black spot; males with head yellow and extensively reticulate; abdominal region behind pelvic and pectoral fins is orange to orange-pink with yellow crosshatch markings; posterior part of body purple black; females are distinctly bicolored, orange-brown dorsally, white ventrally .Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Polynesian wrasse is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 12 - 31 m . Tropical; 14°N - 28°S Pacific Ocean: Guam to the Society, Tuamoto, Austral and Ducie islands.
🌿 Ecology
small invertebrates (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Polynesian wrasse.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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