Twospot Wrasse

Oxycheilinus bimaculatus

The Twospot Wrasse, a member of the Labridae family, is a small reef-associated fish found in tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It inhabits areas from East Africa to the Hawaiian and Marquesan islands, extending north to southern Japan and south to Vanuatu. This species is typically seen at depths ranging from 2 to 120 meters, although most observations occur shallower than 40 meters. The Twospot Wrasse is distinguished by its variable body coloration, which can range from brown to yellow or green, often interspersed with various shades or spots. A notable feature is the small dark spot located behind its eye. Juveniles display a broad, dark lateral stripe that transforms into dark blotches as they mature, with the largest blotch appearing above the pectoral fins. Males develop long filaments on their caudal fins, which are rhomboid in shape, with the central rays being the longest. Twospot Wrasses are often found in outer reef slopes, deep clear lagoons, and seagrass beds, and they may also inhabit sheltered estuaries and harbors. They are benthic and benthopelagic, preferring areas with rubble or clumps of algae. During breeding, they exhibit oviparous behavior with distinct pairing. The species is harmless to humans and is sometimes involved in subsistence fisheries and the aquarium trade. The IUCN Red List categorizes the Twospot Wrasse as Least Concern. Divers encountering this species can expect to see a small fish, reaching a maximum length of 16.4 cm, actively swimming among the reefs. Its presence adds to the diversity of marine life in tropical reef ecosystems.