Laboute's Wrasse

Cirrhilabrus laboutei

Laboute's Wrasse is a small reef fish native to the Western Central Pacific, specifically from New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands to the Great Barrier Reef. Males can grow up to 12 cm in length and are characterized by deep lavender-pink on the lower parts of their bodies, with magenta stripes bordered by yellow. Females display a yellowish-brown upper body with magenta stripes and a lavender and white lower body. Younger females have red stripes and a small black spot near the base of the tail fin. These fish are typically found in rubble areas on the slopes of seaward and back reefs, living at depths from 7 to 55 meters, though most sightings occur shallower than 40 meters. During breeding, Laboute's Wrasse forms distinct pairs, a notable aspect of their reproductive behavior. They pose no threat to humans and are commercially traded for aquariums. Divers may encounter Laboute's Wrasse in tropical reef settings, often observing them in pairs. They are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Observing their coloration and behavior can be an interesting experience for those exploring reef slopes and rubble areas.