Moon Wrasse

Interesting Info

• The moon wrasse is a species of fish that can be found in the coastal waters of central and northern Australia. Primarily found in Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland, and northern parts of New South Wales.
• Their coloration is a greenish-blue body with a crescent-shaped, yellowish-green mark on their sides that gives them their common name. This mark is shaped like a crescent moon, and the rest of their body is covered in small, dark spots. Their head and face are typically a darker blue colour, and they have a sharp, pointed snout. The males tend to be larger and more brightly coloured than females, with longer fins.
• They feed on a variety of small invertebrates and fish, such as crabs, shrimp, and small bony fish.
• Moon wrasse are often seen in groups, swimming close to the bottom and foraging for food.
• The moon wrasse is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning they start off as females and later transform into males.
• They are known to have a unique mating ritual, where the male will change colour and chase the female until she releases her eggs.
• The male will then fertilise the eggs and protect them until they hatch.
• The estimated lifespan is up to 10 years in the wild.