Rock Wrasse

Halichoeres semicinctus

Rock Wrasses are typically found in the Eastern Pacific, ranging from Point Conception in California to Guadalupe Island and the Gulf of California in Mexico. They inhabit marine environments close to rocky areas, often near sandy patches and tide pools, at depths ranging from 0 to 24 meters. These fish are known for their unique behavior of darting into the sand when disturbed and sleeping buried in the sand with only their heads protruding. The Rock Wrasse feeds primarily on gastropods and small crustaceans, and it has been observed to pick ectoparasites from other fish. As sequential hermaphrodites, individuals start life as females and transition to males at around 30 cm in length. They are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs into the open water. Divers may encounter Rock Wrasses during the day as they are diurnal and active swimmers. They are harmless to humans and are sometimes seen in commercial fisheries and aquariums. The species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.