Bird Wrasse

Gomphosus varius

Habitat & Distribution :  Coral reef, Indo-Pacific Ocean

Diet: Benthic crustaceans, small fish, mollusks and brittle stars.

Size: Up to 30 cm

Lifespan: 3 - 5 years

Description

The bird wrasse is a small bodied fish, characterized by its long bird-like snout. Its appearance widely differs depending on its life phase and sex. Juveniles lack the long snout, and are white-bellied, blue-green backed, with a clear black stripe dividing the two parts. Females are smaller than males, with a brownish gray and white body, resembling a penguin. Males are bluish green, and much larger.

Behavior

They are diurnal, or active during the day, and will hide among rocks to sleep during the night. Usually solitary, but can sometimes be found in small groups. Semi-aggressive towards their prey. They use their long snouts and protrusile jaws to reach for prey in narrow reef crevices.

Reproduction

These fish are protogynous hermaphrodites. They all start out as female, and when there are no males around, the largest female will turn into a male. Females will visit a male's territory to mate, and the fertilized eggs will be released into the water to float freely.

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

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