Oriental Maori Wrasse

Wrasse Oriental Maori

The Oriental Maori Wrasse is a fish species with a reddish-orange body. There are two identifying white stripes that run horizontally along its body. Lines on the cheeks can also be seen on some specimens. Juveniles usually have brown or dots on their body. Even at this early age, it’s possible to see the appearance of the distinguishing white lines. As they mature, they can reach a length of 9.8 inches (25 centimeters) in length.

The Oriental Wrasse is a protogynous hermaphrodite and can change sex from female to male. It is an oviparous species with unique breeding pairs. Larger fish have been reported swimming sideways onto smaller fish, fanning its fins. This is believed to be mating behavior. The coloration of the larger fish is more vibrant than usual under these settings.

This species is native to the Indo-Pacific region. Its range includes the Red Sea to Indonesia, Southern Japan, and south to the Marshall Islands. They are found in protected lagoons and reefs with abundant coral debris and algae. It feeds on tiny fish and crustaceans/benthic invertebrates at depths of 3 – 250 feet (1 – 75 m).