Three-ribbon Wrasse

Appearance

"Stethojulis trilineata" is a small species of wrasse which can grow to a total length of 15 centimetres. The initial phase, or female, fish are greenish to brownish-grey and have numerous whitish spots on the upper flanks as well as a dark spot on the caudal peduncle. Fish in the terminal phase, males, show three thin, pale pink stripes running along the body with a fourth stripe starting on the head reaching to above the pectoral fin. The dorsal fin has 9 spines and 11 soft rays while the anal fin has 3 spines and 11 soft rays.

Distribution

"Stethojulis trilineata" is widespread in the Indo-West Pacific where it is found from Maldives east to Samoa and Palau, north to Tokara Island of Japan and south to Montague Island of Australia.

Behavior

"Stethojulis trilineata" is found on reefs exposed to currents which have clear water. They are normally found in loose groups over reef crests and drop offs. They spawn in discrete pairs within their small groups, usually of less than 15 individuals. Spawning occurs at various times of the day and does not appear to be influenced by either lunar or tidal effects. It occurs to depths of 20 metres.

Habitat

"Stethojulis trilineata" is found on reefs exposed to currents which have clear water. They are normally found in loose groups over reef crests and drop offs. They spawn in discrete pairs within their small groups, usually of less than 15 individuals. Spawning occurs at various times of the day and does not appear to be influenced by either lunar or tidal effects. It occurs to depths of 20 metres.