Epibulus insidiator

(Pallas, 1770)

Vernacular names
English : Sling-jaw wrasse
French : Labre traître

Classification
Class : Teleostei
Order : Eupercaria i. s. (sometimes still Perciformes)
Family : Labridae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Very long tube-like mouth that folds when not used. Coloration usually brown to nearly black with yellow back and vertical flank band, black edges on flank scales. Distinctive head profile.

Range and habitat
Indo-Pacific, from Red Sea and South Africa to Hawaii and Tuamoto Islands, to south Japan and New Caledonia. Found around coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species is widespread and locally common. It is often associated with coral reefs so possibly vulnerable to habitat loss. Caught for trade and food, catching levels haven’t been monitored.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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