Halichoeres pallidus Kuiter & Randall, 1995
Pale wrasse
photo by Pyle, R.M.

Family:  Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Corinae
Max. size:  10 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 30 - 74 m
Distribution:  Pacific Ocean: eastern Indonesia to Palau and the Line Islands. Replaced by Halichoeres trispilus in the Indian Ocean.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-12; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 12-12. Looks white at depth. Juveniles with three large black spots in dorsal fin (Ref. 48636).
Biology:  Found in steep outer reef slopes to at least 74 m depth (Ref. 34765), with large caves and rich invertebrate growth. Occurs in small groups of females and dominating male (Ref. 48636).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 25 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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