Halichoeres rubricephalus, also known as Redhead wrasse, is a captivating reef-associated fish found in the warm waters of the southwestern Pacific. Let’s dive into the fascinating details of this delightful underwater resident:
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Appearance:
- The male Redhead wrasse boasts a bright red head, even at depths where red light is significantly suppressed.
- The female, while easily mistaken for other orange-striped species, has an additional ocelli (a dark spot) at the end of the dorsal fin.
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Habitat and Size:
- Redhead wrasses inhabit brittle corals growing densely on rubble slopes of inner reefs, typically at depths between 10 to 35 meters.
- They construct impressive rubble mounds over their burrows, which can reach up to 70 centimeters in height and 2 meters in diameter.
- These fish exhibit distinct pairing behavior during breeding.
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Etymology:
- The scientific name Halichoeres rubricephalus combines Greek roots: “halichoeres” (salt pig) and “rubricephalus” (red head), referring to the male’s vivid head color.
Next time you explore the vibrant coral reefs, keep an eye out for the captivating Redhead wrasse—a true gem of the ocean!
