Harlequin Wrasse

Bodianus eclancheri

The Harlequin Wrasse, known scientifically as Bodianus eclancheri, is a reef-associated fish found in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, particularly from Ecuador to central Chile, including the cooler waters of the Galapagos Islands. This species can reach a maximum length of 61 cm, though it is more commonly seen at around 40 cm. It has a moderately deep, compressed body with a large, pointed head and elongated, incisor-like teeth. The dorsal fin is contiguous with 12 spines, and the posterior rays of both the dorsal and anal fins form filamentous lobes. The coloration of the Harlequin Wrasse can vary, including shades of brown, black, red, or orange, with less than 5% of individuals being entirely black. Divers may encounter the Harlequin Wrasse at depths ranging from 5 to 46 meters. It thrives in tropical marine environments, particularly around reefs. As a sequentially protogynous hermaphrodite, the Harlequin Wrasse changes sex during its lifetime. It is an oviparous species, engaging in distinct pairing during breeding, and spawns pelagically. Its diet is diverse, consisting of a wide range of invertebrates and algae. The Harlequin Wrasse is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. For divers, observing this species can be an intriguing experience, given its unique appearance and behavior. The wrasse is harmless to humans and holds no significant interest for fisheries, though it is occasionally found in the aquarium trade.