Southern Maori Wrasse

The southern Maori wrasse is a compact wrasse reaching around 40 cm, found in southern Australian waters. Males display bold linear patterns and vibrant colouration, while females tend toward more subdued green and brown tones. These wrasses inhabit rocky reefs and kelp forests, foraging along the seafloor for small crustaceans and molluscs. They are quick, alert fish that dart away when approached but can be observed hunting methodically through crevices and over rocks.