The Queen coris (Coris formosa) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The queen coris is a large wrasse from the western Indian Ocean, from the southern Red Sea to Natal and east to Sri Lanka. The species grows to about 60 cm. Juveniles are orange with large, black-edged white spots; large males become reddish to lavender with blue-green spots on the tail. With strong jaws it crushes hard-shelled prey: crustaceans, molluscs and sea urchins. Like other wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Queen coris?
The Queen coris has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Queen coris live?
The Queen coris lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Queen coris get?
The Queen coris grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Queen coris dangerous to humans?
No, the Queen coris is harmless to humans.
Is the Queen coris edible?
The Queen coris is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Coris
More from the family Labridae
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