TAXONOMY
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)
Order: Perciformes (Perch-likes)
Family: Labridae (Wrasses)

Genus/species: Thalassoma lunare

GENERAL CHACTERISTICS: Adult’s caudal fin is a large yellow crescent edged in purple and blue, the source of the species common name. Body dark green to blue with vertical red lines on scales; pectoral fins a bright pink surrounded by neon blue. The head is distinctive for its bright irregular pink and violet bands radiating from the mouth towards the body, a kind of fluorescent camouflage. Max. length: 25 cm or 10 inches.

DISTRIBUTION/HABITAT: Indo-Pacific; Red Sea to East Africa to the Line Islands, northwest to southern Japan, and southwest to northern New Zealand. Found on marine reefs to a depth of 20 m or 65.5 ft. Also lagoons, coastal reefs, protected seaward reefs, and estuaries.

DIET IN THE WILD: Feeds mainly on small benthic invertebrates and fish eggs

REPRODUCTION: Protogynous hermaphrodite

REMARKS: When frightened this fish will hide in the reef or bury itself in the sand; also buries in sand to sleep.

Philippine Coral Reef PR04

flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/cas_docents/sets/72157608208133134/with/2989886808/

WORDPRESS SHORTLINK:  http://wp.me/p1DZ4b-Is