Cloud Wrasse

Interesting Info

• The Cloud Wrasse is a species of marine fish found in Australia’s tropical and subtropical waters, specifically along the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. They are also found in northern Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
• They are known as the “Cloud Wrasse” due to the white and blue coloration of its body, which looks like a cloud.
• The Cloud Wrasse has a protruding lower jaw, which it uses to root through the substrate in search of prey. In addition, they have a specialised pharyngeal set of teeth, which they use to crush hard-shelled prey.
• They are a carnivorous fish and feed on small invertebrates such as crabs, worms, and small fishes.
• They are solitary fish and are known to be quite territorial.
• The species has been observed exhibiting cooperative hunting behaviour, where individuals work together to catch prey.
• They are known to produce a grunting sound during courtship and spawning events, which can be heard by divers and snorkelers.
• Breeding occurs during the warmer months from late spring to early autumn. They are broadcast spawners, releasing their eggs and sperm into the water column for fertilisation to occur. The eggs hatch into larvae, which are planktonic and drift with the ocean currents for several weeks before settling on the substrate.
• Estimated lifespan is up to 5 years.