White-Spotted Wrasse

Anampses melanurus

The White-spotted Wrasse is a reef-associated fish found in the Pacific Ocean, ranging from Indonesia to the Marquesas and Society Islands, and extending to Easter Island. It is typically found in tropical waters between 23°C and 28°C. This species can grow up to 12.0 cm in length and is recognized by its fusiform body shape and a distinctive yellow bar at the base of its tail. Unlike its close relative, Anampses meleagrides, it never has a uniformly yellow tail. White-spotted Wrasses inhabit seaward reefs and are often seen in deep coastal to outer reef slopes and drop-offs. They are usually found at depths ranging from 15 to 110 meters, although most are observed shallower than 40 meters. These fish are solitary or found in pairs within the surge zone and sometimes swim in small groups consisting of several females and a single dominant male. Their diet primarily consists of small crustaceans, mollusks, and polychaetes. The species is oviparous, with distinct pairing during breeding. The IUCN has assessed the White-spotted Wrasse as Least Concern, and it poses no threat to humans.