Thalassoma hardwicke (Bennett, 1830)
Sixbar wrasse
photo by Du, J.-G.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Corinae
Max. size:  25 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 15 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Indo-Pacific: East Africa to the Line and Tuamoto islands, north to southern Japan, south to the Lord Howe and Austral islands.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 8-8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-14; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 11-11. Color pattern remains similar with growth with terminal males becoming gaudier than primary males (Ref. 37816). Pale green with 6 dark bars, last two as saddles over the tail. Head with pink bands radiating from eye in large adults (Ref. 48636).
Biology:  Occurs in shallow lagoon and seaward reefs, slopes and along drop-offs to moderate depths. Occurs in small, loose groups (Ref. 48636). Feeds on benthic and planktonic crustaceans, small fishes, and foraminiferans.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 12 June 2008 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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