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Chiseltooth Wrasse

Chiseltooth Wrasse

Pseudodax Moluccanus

Quick Facts

Scientific name Pseudodax Moluccanus

Other names Chiseltoothed Wrasse

Size Up to 25 cm (9.84 in)

Weight Up to .45 kg (1 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Coastal waters amongst reefs in caves, crevices & holes

Depth Range 5 - 100 m (328 ft)

Interesting Info

The Chiseltooth Wrasse is commonly found in the northern parts of Australia, particularly in the waters around the Northern Territory.
The species is known for its distinctive coloration, which includes a bright blue head and a greenish-brown body.
The species is a carnivorous fish, feeding primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.
The Chiseltooth Wrasse is a solitary species, often seen swimming alone or in pairs. The species is known for its aggressive behaviour, particularly towards other wrasses and fish that are similar in size or appearance.
During the breeding season, which typically occurs in the summer months, male Chiseltooth Wrasses become more brightly coloured and engage in aggressive displays to attract mates.
Like many other wrasses, the Chiseltooth Wrasse is hermaphroditic, meaning that it has both male and female reproductive organs.
Juvenile Chiseltooth Wrasses often form large schools for protection and socialization, but as they grow older, they become more solitary.
The estimated lifespan is between 10 – 15 years in the wild.

Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing, Aquarium, Snorkeling & Diving

Chiseltooth Wrasse are not a targeted species for fishing and are often caught as bycatch, and are released. Chiseltooth Wrasse can be challenging to keep in captivity, and only experienced aquarium keepers should attempt to keep this species as they are very aggressive to other species and need lots of care. They can be a fascinating fish to observe while snorkeling or diving as they have striking colours.

Species
Sustainability

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Labridae

Genus: Pseudodax

Species: Pseudodax Moluccanus

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Chiseltooth Wrasse in Australia is not formally assessed. However, the species is not currently considered to be threatened, endangered, or vulnerable.