Wrasses

Barred thicklip (Hemigymnus fasciatus)

The Barred thicklip (Hemigymnus fasciatus) 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 25 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Barred thicklip (Hemigymnus fasciatus), a Red Sea fish of the wrasses family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameHemigymnus fasciatus
FamilyWrasses (Labridae)
Common name (IT)Tordo a fascia nera
Common name (EN)Barred thicklip
Maximum size25 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 Barred thicklip belong to?
The Barred thicklip (Hemigymnus fasciatus) belongs to the family Labridae (wrasses).
Is the Barred thicklip dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Barred thicklip endemic to the Red Sea?
No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
How big does the Barred thicklip get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 25 cm.

Explore the Barred thicklip in 3D in the interactive atlas →