Saddle wrasse

The saddle wrasse (Thalassoma duperrey), also known as Hīnālea Lauwili in Hawaiʻi, is a species of wrasse native to the waters around the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Island. They are found on reefs at depths from 5 to 25 m (16 to 82 ft). This species can reach 28 cm (11 in) in total length. This species can also be found in the aquarium trade.

Distribution

Saddle wrasses are endemic to Hawaii as well as Johnston Atoll, where they are very common.

Saddle wrasses can be found in intertidal and shallow habitats down to about 70 ft (21.34 m) of depth. They are found in areas with a lot of corals, rocks, nooks, and crannies to have a quiet get-away and hiding place from potential threats.

These fish sleep hidden in holes or burrows in sandy areas.

Behaviour

Saddle wrasses are carnivores and opportunistic feeders, consuming anything that will become available to them. As juveniles, they will tend to be considered "cleaners'': such as picking parasites from larger fish or animals, but as they mature they will start to scavenge for worms, shells, mollusks, shrimps, and other crustaceans. They have canine teeth and pharyngeal bones near their gills in order to help crush the shells.