The Whitebelly Wrasse, Canarytop Wrasse, Lemon Meringue Wrasse, Yellow Wrasse, scientifically known as Halichoeres leucoxanthus, is a vibrant and captivating fish species inhabiting the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This wrasse is renowned for its striking coloration and fascinating behavioral patterns.
Description & Characteristics
Halichoeres leucoxanthus is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 12.0 cm. The species is characterized by its bright yellow body with a white belly, hence its common names. It has a distinctive, elongated body shape typical of wrasses, with a small, pointed head and a large, terminal mouth.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Whitebelly Wrasse, Canarytop Wrasse, Lemon Meringue Wrasse, Yellow Wrasse is found in a variety of habitats, primarily residing in coral reefs, rocky reefs, and seagrass beds. This species is common in the Indo-Pacific region, with a depth range of 7.0 to 60.0 meters.
Halichoeres leucoxanthus is often found in association with other fish species and can be observed in both shallow and deeper marine zones. This adaptable species is a common sight in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, making its presence known in a variety of habitats within this region.
Taxonomy
The species Halichoeres leucoxanthus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Labridae. The Labridae family, known as wrasses, is a diverse group of fish characterized by their elongated bodies, thick lips, and often colorful patterns.
Feeding
The Whitebelly Wrasse, Canarytop Wrasse, Lemon Meringue Wrasse, Yellow Wrasse is a carnivorous fish. Its diet mainly consists of zooplankton, small invertebrates, and algae. Halichoeres leucoxanthus is known to forage for food on the reef floor, using its specialized mouth to pick up prey. This wrasse is commonly observed feeding on brine shrimps, clam meat, flakes, frozen food, krill, mysis, nori-algae, pellets, shrimps, and zooplankton.
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