Bluespotted Wrasse

Macropharyngodon cyanoguttatus

The Bluespotted Wrasse, a member of the family Labridae, is a small reef-associated fish found in the tropical waters of the Western Indian Ocean. It inhabits regions from northern Natal in South Africa to Mauritius and Réunion, with potential sightings in Madagascar and Rodriguez. Typically residing at depths between 10 and 40 meters, this non-migratory species prefers the ecosystem of coral reefs. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females displaying a brown body adorned with round blue spots on each scale, and a head that ranges from yellow to brownish yellow with dark-edged blue bands. Males, on the other hand, have a brownish-yellow body and caudal fin, also highlighted by dark-edged blue spots, while their heads are a dull orange-yellow with similar blue bands. The Bluespotted Wrasse can grow up to 11.5 cm in length and has a fusiform body shape. The Bluespotted Wrasse is oviparous, engaging in distinct pairing during the breeding season. The species is considered harmless to humans and is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Divers encountering this fish can expect to see it actively swimming around the reef, displaying its characteristic coloration.