Moon Wrasse

Thalassoma lunare

Habitat & Distribution :  Indo-West Pacific

Diet : Zooplankton

Size : Up to 45 cm

Lifespan : 5 - 7 years

Description

Juveniles of this species are blue underneath, with a black spot in the center of their dorsal fin and at the base of their tail. As they mature, this black spot changes shape to a distinctive yellow crescent. The adult body is green, with distinct scales, and the head can range from blue to purple.

Behavior

This fish is one of the few wrasse species that has been observed to be able to use rocks or coral debris as tools to open hard-shelled prey such as sea urchins.

Reproduction

It reproduces through pelagic spawning and is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals can change sex from female to male

Communication & Perception

These fish communicate primarily through visual signaling, using dramatic color changes, fin displays, and specific swimming behaviors to establish territories, signal status, and facilitate mating.

Predator

Reef sharks, lionfish, groupers, barracuda, moray eels