Humphead wrasse

The humphead wrasse (Crassilabrus undulatus) is the largest species of wrasse mainly found on coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region. It is also known as the Māori wrasse, napoleon wrasse, and napoleonfish.

The species is one of the top predators of the reef ecosystem, mainly consuming various invertebrate species including the crown-of-thorns starfish. It is of interest to humans for food and for aquaria, along with a growing value in providing ecological services.

Habitat

The humphead wrasses can be found on the east coast of Africa around the mouth of the Red Sea, and in some areas of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Juveniles are usually found in shallow, sandy ranges bordering coral reef waters, while adults are found mostly in offshore and deeper areas of coral reefs, typically in outer-reef slopes and channels, but also in lagoons.