Brownspotted Wrasse

Notolabrus parilus

The brownspotted wrasse (Notolabrus parilus) is a species of wrasse in the family Labridae, endemic to the southern coast of Australia from Shark Bay, Western Australia, to southern Victoria. Adults reach up to 25 cm in length. Males display a dark brown or greyish-brown body with an interrupted horizontal white band running the length of the body, along with gold or brown markings on scales. Females and juveniles are lighter brown or greenish with white blotches and grey-brown barring. This species inhabits rocky reefs with abundant seaweed growth at depths of 1-20 meters. They are active, inquisitive fish frequently encountered by divers on temperate Australian reefs. Brownspotted wrasse are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates including crustaceans, mollusks, and worms found among reef structures and kelp. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning females can change sex to become males. Their curious nature and tendency to approach divers make them engaging subjects for underwater observation.