Halichoeres salmofasciatus Allen & Robertson, 2002
Red-striped wrasse
photo by Robertson, R.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Corinae
Max. size:  6.29 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; marine; depth range 7 - 30 m
Distribution:  Eastern Central Pacific: Cocos Island, Costa Rica.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-12; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 12-12; Vertebrae: 25-25. This species is distinguished by the following set of characters: D IX,12, A III,12; pectoral rays 14; caudal rays 14; lateral line scales 27, scales above it to dorsal fin origin 4, below to anal fin origin 8; circumpeduncular scale rows 16; gill rakers on first arch 16; color of terminal phase adult olive on back with diffused dark mid-lateral stripe from head to tail; color of initial phase adult white on lower half of body with pair of salmon red stripes on upper half, opercular membranes with a black spot on another on caudal fin base (Ref. 75895).
Biology:  Usually inhabits areas of sand covered with dense scattering of small scale rubble composed of either volcanic rock chips or calcareous algae, at depths to at least 30 m. Small numbers of individuals found on sand at sand/reef interfaces. Species of Halichoeres melanotis and H. malpelo occur in the same habitat, on continental mainland and Isla Malpelo, respectively (Ref. 75895).
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU); Date assessed: 23 May 2007 (D2) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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