Scientific Name
Halichoeres chloropterus
Common Name
Pastel-green wrasse
Biology
Dorsal
spines
(total): 9;
Dorsal
soft rays
(total): 10-11;
Anal
spines: 3;
Anal
soft rays: 10 - 11;
Vertebrae: 25. Usually bright green in algae habitat, but pale or with longitudinal dark bands on plain rubble (Ref. 48636). Head of male with intricate reticulate pattern of bands that varies from one individual to another; small blackish spot on anus. Juveniles and females with dark dots dorsally and posteriorly; these are lost in males. Anterior lateral line scales with 1-3 pores; 8-13 suborbital pores. Anterior dorsal and anal soft rays longer than posterior rays; male pelvic fins not reaching the anus.