Red-cheek wrasse
📖 Overview
Red-cheek wrasse (Thalassoma genivittatum) 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 20 cm. With a trophic level of 3.5, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Red-cheek wrasse is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Red-cheek wrasse is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 0 - ? m , usually 4 - 25 m . Subtropical South Africa.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Red-cheek 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 | 19.2 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 233 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Red-cheek wrasse has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Julis bicolor | Günther | 1862 | Synonym |
| Julis commersoni | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Julis genivittatus | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Julis matthaei | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Julis matthoei | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Paeolopesia mathaei | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Peaolopesia matthoei | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Thalassoma commersoni | Valenciennes | 1839 | Synonym |
| Thalassoma mascarenum | Fricke | 1999 | Synonym |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Red-cheek wrasse.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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