Double Bar Wrasse

Wetmorella, a genus within the family Labridae, comprises species of wrasse that typically inhabit secluded environments. These species are found primarily in the darker regions at the rear of caves located in outer reef areas, and occasionally within lagoons. Their diet consists predominantly of small vertebrates.

Wetmorella nigropinnata is a diminutive wrasse, exhibiting coloration that ranges from gray to reddish-brown. Notable identifying features include a yellow stripe located behind the eye and a second yellow stripe at the caudal peduncle. This species displays dark eye spots on its dorsal and anal fins, as well as a prominent dark spot on the pelvic fins. Juvenile specimens of Wetmorella nigropinnata are characterized by a mottled brown coloration, marked by two additional light bars on the body.

The morphologically distinct features of Wetmorella nigropinnata set it apart from other related species such as Wetmorella albofasciata and Wetmorella tanakai. Specifically, juveniles and subadults of Wetmorella nigropinnata possess two broad, slightly oblique, pale stripes on their bodies. In contrast, Wetmorella albofasciata displays two narrow pale stripes that converge along the underside.