Gunther’s Wrasse

Pseudolabrus Guentheri
Gunthers Wrasse - Marinewise © 2024 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific name Pseudolabrus Guentheri
Other names Chocolate Parrotfish, Gunther's Rainbowfish
Size Up to 15 cm (5.9 in)
Weight Up to .25 kg (.55 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Coastal waters, estuaries, bays & harbours amongst soft corals, sponges & weedy areas
Depth Range 5 - 25 m (82 ft)
Gunther's Wrasse Distribution

Interesting Info

  • The Gunther’s wrasse is a marine fish species commonly found Queensland, particularly the Great Barrier Reef.
  • It has has a distinctive appearance, with a blue-green body, a pinkish-red head, and a yellow tail. Though these colours can change based on stress levels or during mating displays.
  • Gunther’s wrasse is a carnivorous fish that feeds on small crustaceans and other invertebrates.
  • The species has been observed to form schools with other wrasses during feeding.
  • They have a strong jaw and sharp teeth, which helps them to crush the shells of their prey.
  • Gunther’s wrasse is known to exhibit sequential hermaphroditism, where they start out as females and later transition into males.
  • Breeding season typically occurs between August and October, with the peak occurring in September. During this time, males will display their bright colours to attract females and engage in courtship behaviour, including fin flaring and head shaking.
  • The estimated lifespan is up to 15 years or more in the wild.
Species Interaction

Aquarium, Snorkeling & Diving

Gunther’s wrasse is a popular aquarium fish due to its striking appearance and active swimming behaviour. Gunther’s wrasse is an active and curious fish, which can make for an exciting encounter for snorkelers and divers. Their vibrant colours and unique body shape are also visually striking, making them a favourite among underwater photographers.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Labridae

Genus: Pseudolabrus

Species: Pseudolabrus Guentheri

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Gunther’s wrasse in Australia is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means that, based on available information, the species is not considered to be at significant risk of extinction or population decline.

Gunther’s Wrasse
As Aquarium Fish

Care Level: Easy to moderate

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Diet: Carnivore

Reef Compatible: Yes

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons

Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba

Finding: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Location: Inner Reef, Outer Reef, Caves, Lagoon

Danger: None