Wrasses
Humphead wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus)
The Humphead wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) belongs to the family Labridae (wrasses) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It reaches about 229 cm and is found at 1–100 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Endangered. Treat it with caution (caution): do not touch or handle it.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Cheilinus undulatus |
|---|---|
| Authority | Rüppell, 1835 |
| Family | Wrasses (Labridae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce napoleone |
| Common name (EN) | Humphead wrasse |
| Maximum size | 229 cm |
| Depth | 1–100 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | EN — Endangered |
| Hazard | Caution |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Diving hazard — Caution: keep your distance, and never touch, corner or feed it.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indian Ocean
- Western Pacific
Diving safety
Caution. This is a predator or a fish with a strong bite. It is not looking for people — watch from a distance, do not touch, chase or feed it.
If it happens
- For a bite: leave the water, control bleeding with direct pressure, clean the wound.
After
- Marine bites infect readily — seek medical care and tetanus cover.
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Humphead wrasse belong to?
- The Humphead wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) belongs to the family Labridae (wrasses).
- Is the Humphead wrasse dangerous?
- It needs caution: Caution. Keep your distance and do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Humphead wrasse endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Humphead wrasse get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 229 cm.
Explore the Humphead wrasse in 3D in the interactive atlas →