The Humphead Wrasse
CONSERVATION ALERT! The humphead wrasse ( Cheilinus undulates ) is classified as an endangered species with declining populations. A lso known as the Napoleon wrasse, the humphead wrasse is a rare and extremely vulnerable fish species. The most recent population estimate is between 50,000 and 100,000 individuals. The population has seen a 50% loss in the past 30 years. Humphead wrasse are one of the largest fish found in coral reefs. They can grow up to 6 feet long and weigh 400 pounds. They have a life span of 30 years more or less and are easily spotted by a prominent bulge on their forehead. These enormous fish are generally solitary, traveling across coral reefs by day and sheltering in their caves and under their ledges at night. This species can be found in the Coral Triangle as well as on other coral reefs throughout much of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The humphead wrasse plays an important role in their ecosystem and if they were removed, the