The Banded Maori (Cheilinus fasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The redbreasted wrasse is a large wrasse of the family Labridae from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep body with black and pale crossbars, a red-orange breast and, in older males, a greenish head. Adults inhabit lagoon and seaward reefs, usually in areas of mixed sand, rubble and coral. As a bottom predator it crushes hard-shelled prey such as molluscs, crustaceans and sea urchins with powerful jaws. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: it begins as a female and can later become a male. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded Maori?
The Banded Maori has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Banded Maori live?
The Banded Maori lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Banded Maori get?
The Banded Maori grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Banded Maori dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded Maori is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded Maori edible?
Yes, the Banded Maori is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cheilinus
More from the family Labridae
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