Cheilinus lunulatus (Forsskål, 1775)
Broomtail wrasse
Cheilinus lunulatus
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Cheilininae
Max. size:  50 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 2 - 30 m
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Red Sea to the Gulf of Oman.
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Adults inhabit coral reefs and adjacent rubble, sand and seagrass habitats (typically along the edges of coral rich fringing reef slopes, Ref. 9710). Feed mainly on hard-shelled invertebrates, especially mollusks (Ref. 5374). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 12 April 2008 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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