Humphead wrasse

The humphead wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) is a large Indo-Pacific reef fish recognized by its prominent forehead hump and thick lips. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite: individuals can change from female to male.

Labridae: Labridae is a diverse family of marine fishes that includes wrasses and parrotfishes. The humphead wrasse belongs to this family of mostly reef-associated fishes.
IUCN Red List: The IUCN Red List assesses species' extinction risk using standardized categories and criteria. It classifies the humphead wrasse as Endangered.
Molluscivory: Molluscivory is a feeding strategy centered on eating mollusks such as snails and clams. Humphead wrasses use powerful jaws to prey on hard-shelled reef animals.
Overfishing: Overfishing occurs when fish are removed faster than populations can replenish themselves. Large, slow-maturing humphead wrasses are vulnerable to sustained harvest.
Coral reef: A coral reef is a marine ecosystem built chiefly by reef-forming corals and their associated organisms. This fish depends on Indo-Pacific reefs for shelter and feeding grounds.
CITES: CITES is an international agreement regulating trade in wild animals and plants. The humphead wrasse is listed in CITES Appendix II, which regulates international trade.
Coral-eating fish: Coral-eating fish consume living coral tissue or skeleton as a substantial part of their diet. Unlike obligate coral consumers, humphead wrasses mainly hunt invertebrates on reefs.
Fishery collapse: A fishery collapse is a severe decline in a fish population that undermines or halts its harvest. Heavy exploitation can deplete local humphead wrasse populations and fisheries.
Protogyny: Protogyny is a reproductive pattern in which an individual functions first as female and later as male. Humphead wrasses can change sex from female to male as they mature.
Live reef food fish trade: The live reef food fish trade captures and transports reef fish alive for restaurant markets. Demand for live humphead wrasses has contributed to fishing pressure.

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WrasseBroader topic: Its size and appearance make it one of the most recognizable wrasses.