Sixline Wrasse

Pseudocheilinus hexataenia

Habitat & Distribution : Reef-associated, depths 2 - 35 m, Indo-Pacific Ocean

Diet : Small crustaceans

Size : Up to 10 cm

Lifespan: 3 - 8 years

Description

There is also a dark colored ocellus on the dorsal side of its tail fin, and blue lines on its anal fins and pectoral fins. It has red eyes.

Behavior

Commonly found living in small, loose groups near branching corals, on seaward reefs. This fish swims around the coral branches for protection. When night comes, it will sleep in a cocoon made of its own mucus to mask its scent from predators.

Reproduction

The male will approach the female to mate, and the fecundated eggs will be released into the waters to fend for themselves.

Communication & Perception

Relies on visuals to hunt and to recognize its harem members.

Predator

Moray eels, lionfish, reef sharks, barracudas and other larger predatory fish

Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List; 2008)