Biglip Damsel

Cheiloprion labiatus

The Biglip Damsel is a small reef-associated fish known for its distinctive body shape, which is short and deep with a compressed cross-section. It can be identified by its dorsal fin, which features 13 spines and 13 to 14 soft rays, and an anal fin with 2 spines and 13 to 14 soft rays. This species reaches a maximum length of 6.0 cm. Typically found in the Indo-West Pacific region, its distribution extends from Sri Lanka to the Solomon Islands, reaching north to the Philippines and south to Vanuatu and northern Australia. It is also present in Palau, Micronesia. The Biglip Damsel is non-migratory and inhabits shallow lagoon reefs at depths ranging from 1 to 3 meters, often residing among beds of branching corals, either alone or in small groups. Primarily feeding on the polyps of Acropora corals, the Biglip Damsel is a diurnal species. Its breeding behavior involves distinct pairing, with males taking on the role of guarding and aerating the demersal eggs that adhere to the substrate. Divers encountering this species can expect to find it in shallow waters, where it can be observed feeding or engaging in its reproductive activities. The conservation status of the Biglip Damsel is listed as Vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List. Despite being harmless to humans and of no interest to fisheries, its habitat preferences make it susceptible to environmental changes affecting coral reefs.