Halichoeres nigrescens (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
Bubblefin wrasse
Halichoeres nigrescens
photo by Cook, D.C.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Corinae
Max. size:  14.6 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 3 - 10 m
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific: East Africa and Persian Gulf to East Indian region (excluding Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands); north to China and Taiwan; south to Australia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-12; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 11-12. This species is distinguished by the following characters: greatest body depth 2.9-3.6 in SL; pectoral-fin rays usually 14. Colour of male green on head and upper two-thirds of body, white on ventral part with inter-connected brown bars on side; lavander bands on head; between 6th and 7th dorsal spines, a diffuse dark spot; upper pectoral fin base with a small black spot; colour of female dark greenish-brown on upper half of body with several small, white spots along middle of the side (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Inhabit shallow weedy areas of rocky shorelines with little coral growth (Ref. 9710). Found in groups (Ref. 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 12 April 2008 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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