Leaf Wrasse

Interesting Info

• The leaf wrasse, is primarily found in the Western Central Pacific region, specifically in the coastal waters of Western Australia, Northern Territory, and Queensland. With spotting’s down through New South Wales to northern parts of Victoria.
• The leaf wrasse has a unique and striking appearance due to its elongated, flattened body shape that resembles a leaf. Its coloration and patterns serve as an effective camouflage, allowing it to blend in with its coral and rocky reef environment.
• The body of the leaf wrasse exhibits a combination of green, brown, and yellow hues, often with a mottled or marbled appearance. These colours are typically intermixed with irregular, darker patches that further enhance its leaf-like appearance.
• The diet of the leaf wrasse consists primarily of small invertebrates such as crustaceans and molluscs. They are known for their unique feeding strategy, which involves picking out prey items from the surface of rocks and coral structures.
• The leaf wrasse is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning it can change sex from female to male as it matures.
• During the breeding season, males display vibrant colours and patterns to attract females and become more territorial. Breeding habits are not well-documented, it is believed that they engage in external fertilisation, where females release eggs into the water column to be fertilised by males.
• Estimated lifespan is up to 5 years.