The Cutribbon Wrasse (Stethojulis interrupta), also known as the Brokenline Wrasse, One-line Rainbowfish, Spot-bellied Rainbowfish, or by its scientific synonym Leptojulis interrupta, is a marine species distinguishable by unique color patterns. The male of the species is set apart from others within the Stethojulis genus by its characteristic broken mid stripe. In contrast, females and juveniles exhibit significant variability in appearance, often featuring a yellow snout and a distinctive black mottling pattern similar to that of a mackerel, located behind the pectoral fin. However, this pattern can be challenging to discern in darker or striped variants.
The Cutribbon Wrasse typically forms small schools, exhibiting movement and feeding behaviors reminiscent of sparrows congregating at a café. The maximum size recorded for this species is 13 centimeters, and they inhabit depths ranging from 1 to 18 meters.
Why it's threatened
A major threat is the degradation of the coral reef habitat. This species is collected for the aquarium trade, which is considered a threat due to the fact that they are rare.
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
