Wrasses

Green birdmouth wrasse (Gomphosus caeruleus)

The Green birdmouth wrasse (Gomphosus caeruleus) belongs to the family Labridae (wrasses) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen in groups or alone. It reaches about 28 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Green birdmouth wrasse (Gomphosus caeruleus), a Red Sea fish of the wrasses family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameGomphosus caeruleus
FamilyWrasses (Labridae)
Common name (IT)Tordo uccello
Common name (EN)Green birdmouth wrasse
Maximum size28 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionRed Sea and Indo-Pacific
IUCN statusLC — Least Concern

Description

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

Where it lives

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

  • Red Sea
  • Indo-Pacific

Frequently asked questions

What family does the Green birdmouth wrasse belong to?
The Green birdmouth wrasse (Gomphosus caeruleus) belongs to the family Labridae (wrasses).
Is the Green birdmouth wrasse dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Green birdmouth 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 Green birdmouth wrasse get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 28 cm.

Explore the Green birdmouth wrasse in 3D in the interactive atlas →