Halichoeres richmondi Fowler & Bean, 1928
Richmond's wrasse
photo by Hazes, B.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Corinae
Max. size:  19 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 15 m
Distribution:  Western Pacific: Java, Philippines, Ryukyu Islands, Moluccas, Palau (Belau), Truk, Pohnpei, and Kwajalein.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-12; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 12-12. Males are recognized by the orange-brown head and blue lines that are chain-like along the body. Juveniles and females have an orange to yellow anal fin. The snout is more pointed compared to similar species (Ref. 48636). Terminal males have a distinctive concave head profile (Ref. 1602).
Biology:  Occurs in shallow lagoon and channel reefs, up to a depth of at least 12 m, with rich soft-coral growth. Occurs in small loose groups (Ref. 48636).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 25 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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