Flag Wrasse

Anampses cuvier. Commonly known as Cuvier's or Cuvier's wrasse, is a species of marine fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. It can be found in coral reefs and rocky areas at depths ranging from 1 to 40 meters.

Cuvier's wrasse is a relatively large fish, reaching a maximum length of around 30 cm. It is sexually dimorphic, meaning males and females have different coloration and morphology. Males have a bright blue-green body with a black spot on the dorsal fin and a yellowish-orange tail, while females have a duller greenish-brown body with a pale stripe along the lateral line.

These fish are active and curious, often seen swimming near the surface and inspecting their surroundings. They feed on a variety of small invertebrates, including crustaceans and mollusks, and are known to engage in "cleaning behavior" by picking parasites off of other fish.

In the aquarium trade, Cuvier's wrasse is a popular fish due to its vibrant coloration and interesting behavior. However, it can be challenging to keep and requires a well-established and mature aquarium with plenty of hiding places and live rock for perching.