Fin's Fish Guide
The Cocktail fish (Pteragogus flagellifer) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The cocktail wrasse is a small wrasse (Labridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 20 cm and has a stocky, red-brown body that blends superbly among algae on coral and rocky reefs and on weedy bottoms thanks to its camouflage. It is cryptic and difficult to detect. Males are territorial. The diet consists of small invertebrates. Like many wrasses the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, beginning as a female and later able to change into a male. The fish is edible but not particularly tasty and of little fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cocktail fish?
The Cocktail fish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Cryptic and excellently camouflaged among algae; territorial males; protogynous hermaphrodite.
Where does the Cocktail fish live?
The Cocktail fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, on coral and rocky reefs.
How big does the Cocktail fish get?
The Cocktail fish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Cocktail fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Cocktail fish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cocktail fish edible?
The Cocktail fish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pteragogus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Cocktail fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cocktail fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone