---
title: Dark Side Wrasse (Halichoeres iridis)
scientific_name: Halichoeres iridis
common_name: Dark Side Wrasse
taxon: Wrasse
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-10-28T18:11:49.834Z
updated: 2026-08-07T21:04:48.185Z
tags: Dark Side Wrasse, Halichoeres iridis, Wrasse, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/wrasse/dark-side-wrasse
---

# Dark Side Wrasse (*Halichoeres iridis*)

## Quick facts

- **Group:** Wrasse (*Labridae*)
- **Size:** 11.5 cm
- **Depth:** 6-43 m
- **Conservation status:** LC - Least Concern

Halichoeres iridis, a wrasse species indigenous to the western Indian Ocean along the African coastline and adjacent islands, typically inhabits rubble and sandy areas near reefs at depths ranging from 6 to 43 meters (20 to 141 feet). This species can attain a total length of 11.5 centimeters (4.5 inches) and is also available within the aquarium trade.

## Also known as

- **English:** Rainbow Wrasse
- **German:** Gelbkopf-Junker
- **Portuguese:** Bodião-de-cabeça-dourada

## Range

Indian Ocean, Madagascar, Republic of Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/wrasse/dark-side-wrasse)*
*Updated: August 7, 2026*