Halichoeres rubricephalus Kuiter & Randall, 1995
Redhead wrasse
photo by Tanaka, H.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Corinae
Max. size:  10 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 10 - 35 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Flores, Indonesia.
Diagnosis:  Males are readily identified by the bright red head that even looks red at depth where red light is suppressed greatly. The female is easily mistaken for other orange striped species, but has an additional ocelli at the end of the dorsal fin. Male and female very different (Ref. 48636).
Biology:  Habitat comprises brittle corals growing dense and high on rubble slopes of inner reef, coastal side, in depths between 10-35 m (Ref. 48636).
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 25 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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