The Pink Wrasse, Redspot Wrasse, Yamashiro’s Wrasse, Japanese Wrasse, Redthroat Rainbowfish – Pseudocoris yamashiroi is a captivating fish species found in the Indo-Pacific region. This vibrant fish is a popular choice for aquariums due to its striking colors and peaceful temperament.
Description & Characteristics
The Pseudocoris yamashiroi boasts a distinctive color pattern, with a pink body adorned with a prominent red spot on its head. This spot gives rise to the common names “Redspot Wrasse” and “Redthroat Rainbowfish.” It reaches a maximum size of 16.0 cm, making it a relatively small fish. Its body is elongated and compressed laterally, typical of wrasse species.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Pseudocoris yamashiroi is a coral reef dweller, found at depths ranging from 5.0 to 90.0 meters. This species is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian Ocean, Western Pacific Ocean, and the Red Sea. Its preferred habitats include reefs with abundant coral cover and crevices for shelter.
Taxonomy
The species Pseudocoris yamashiroi belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Labridae. This family, the Labridae, is characterized by their distinctive fleshy lips and teeth, which are adapted for feeding on a variety of marine invertebrates.
Feeding
The Pseudocoris yamashiroi is a carnivorous fish, primarily feeding on a diet of small invertebrates. These include brine shrimps, frozen food (particularly the larger sorts), mysis shrimp, and zooplankton.
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