The Banded Maori Wrasse, Floral Wrasse, Red-banded Wrasse, Redbreasted Maori Wrasse, Red-breasted Wrasse, Redbreasted Wrasse, Redbreast Wrasse, Scarlet-breasted Maori Wrasse, Scarlet-breasted Wrasse, scientifically known as Cheilinus fasciatus, is a captivating and intriguing fish species found in the vast expanses of the world’s oceans. This wrasse species, known for its vibrant colors and striking patterns, captivates the attention of marine enthusiasts and researchers alike.
Description & Characteristics
Cheilinus fasciatus boasts a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other wrasse species. Reaching a maximum size of 40.0 cm, this fish exhibits a slender, elongated body, marked by a striking array of colors. Its body is adorned with a vibrant red hue, often accented by bold, horizontal bands of yellow or orange. The head, particularly the area around the eyes, is usually a contrasting black or dark brown, adding a touch of elegance to its overall appearance. The fins, including the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, are often edged with a bright yellow or orange border, further enhancing its visual appeal.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Banded Maori Wrasse, Floral Wrasse, Red-banded Wrasse, Redbreasted Maori Wrasse, Red-breasted Wrasse, Redbreasted Wrasse, Redbreast Wrasse, Scarlet-breasted Maori Wrasse, Scarlet-breasted Wrasse, or Cheilinus fasciatus, is typically found in tropical waters, inhabiting a depth range of 4.0 to 80.0 meters. This species thrives in a variety of marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows. Its distribution encompasses a vast geographical area, extending across the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and the east coast of Africa to the central Pacific Ocean. This wide-ranging presence makes it a common sight in the marine zones of the tropical Indian Ocean, the tropical western Pacific Ocean, and the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean, showcasing its adaptability to various marine environments.
Taxonomy
The species Cheilinus fasciatus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Labridae. This classification places it within a diverse and fascinating group of fish known as wrasses, characterized by their often brightly colored bodies and their unique feeding habits.
Feeding
Cheilinus fasciatus is a carnivorous fish with a varied diet. Its feeding habits include a diverse range of prey items, such as: clams, coral polyps, crustaceans, edible crab, fish (little fishes), frozen food (large sort), hermit crabs, mysis, rock shrimps, schrimps, sea urchins, shrimps, snails. This adaptability in its diet allows it to thrive in various habitats and exploit the available resources in its environment. Its predatory nature, combined with its diverse feeding habits, plays a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance of its marine ecosystem.
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