Clown Coris

The Clown Coris (Coris aygula), also known as the Clown Wrasse, False Clownwrasse, Humphead Wrasse, Hump-headed Wrasse, Red-blotched Rainbowfish, or Twinspot Wrasse, is a species of wrasse that is indigenous to the 🌊 Indian Ocean and the western 🌊 Pacific Ocean.

With the ability to reach a maximum length of 120 cm (47 in), this species exhibits noticeable differences in appearance between juveniles and adults. Juveniles display white and orange coloration, adorned with false eyes on the dorsal fin, while adults sport a uniform dark green color or may feature light banding with a prominent forehead.

Inhabiting coral reefs, the Coris aygula prefers sandy or rubble areas at depths ranging from 2 to 30 m (6.6 to 98.4 ft). Typically solitary in nature as adults, juveniles can often be found in tide pools.

The distribution of this species spans from the 🌊 Red Sea and the African coast, extending eastward to the Line Islands and Ducie Island. It is also found from southern 🇯🇵 Japan to Lord Howe Island.