The African Coris, African Wrasse, False Clownwrasse, scientifically known as Coris cuvieri, is a captivating marine fish renowned for its vibrant coloration and unique behavior. This species exhibits a captivating mix of colors and patterns, making it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.
Description & Characteristics
The Coris cuvieri is an elongated fish with a compressed body, typically reaching a maximum size of 38.0 cm. Its distinctive features include a prominent hump on its head and a slightly protruding lower jaw. The coloration of the Coris cuvieri varies greatly based on its age and sex. Juveniles usually display a bright orange body with yellow and white stripes, while mature females boast a stunning mix of yellow, orange, and red hues. Adult males, in contrast, have a striking blue body with red stripes and a distinctive yellow band around their eyes.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Coris cuvieri is a common inhabitant of the tropical Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Philippines, Australia, and Japan. This species prefers coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often found in depths ranging from 2.0 to 50.0 meters. Their presence is especially notable in the coastal waters of the tropical and subtropical marine zones, where they thrive in the vibrant and diverse ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The Coris cuvieri species belongs to the family Labridae, commonly known as wrasses. This family encompasses a diverse range of fish species, characterized by their distinctive features, including thick lips and prominent scales. The Coris cuvieri species is further classified within the Class: Teleostei, which includes the vast majority of bony fish, and the Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, a group of fish that is still being studied and classified.
Feeding
The Coris cuvieri is a carnivorous fish with a varied diet. Its primary food sources include crustaceans, crabs, shrimps, snails, starfish, and sea urchins. They also consume invertebrates, zooplankton, and zoobenthos. In artificial environments, they readily accept a variety of prepared foods, including flakes, frozen food (large sort), and shrimps. Their feeding habits are often observed during the day, as they actively search for prey amongst the coral reefs and rocky outcrops they inhabit.
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