Fish Identification: Creole Wrasse

This interesting member of the wrasse (pronounced “rass”) family is a common sighting on many a dive trip.

Shape-wise, the creole wrasse looks like a typical wrasse—elongated body, slightly forked caudal fin, and rear-trailing dorsal and anal fins.

The creole wrasse’s colors change through its life. Juveniles are almost entirely a deep purple to violet color.

As the fish ages, it develops a yellow patch on the rear lower part of its body. The tail fin also becomes a bluish or black color.

Their bright coloring makes them a difficult sight to miss.

Creole wrasse are common through the Caribbean, southern Florida, and even up towards Bermuda.

You’ll find them living on coral reefs, often in small schools.

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