Yellowhead Wrasse
Halichoeres garnoti
The Yellowhead Wrasse (Halichoeres garnoti) is a small Caribbean reef wrasse found over coral and rocky bottoms. Males show a bright yellow head and blue-green body; juveniles and initial-phase fish are browner and more cryptic.
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Identification points
- Adult males have a vivid yellow head with a blue-green body.
- A dark blotch is present on the upper side near the pectoral base.
- Body is slender with a pointed snout and a continuous, low dorsal fin typical of wrasses.
Habitat
Shallow Caribbean and western Atlantic coral reefs, reef slopes, patch reefs, and rocky bottoms with sand or rubble nearby, typically from nearshore shallows to moderate depths.
Bait notes
Takes very small natural baits such as pieces of shrimp, crab, squid, or marine worms; tiny jigs and shrimp-imitating soft plastics can also work.
Behavior
An active daytime forager that picks small benthic invertebrates from the bottom and reef surface. It is usually seen darting in and out of cover and may bury in sand at night or when disturbed.
Caution
Venomous spines are not a concern, but this is a small reef fish rarely targeted for food. In reef habitats, avoid eating larger predatory reef species from the same area because ciguatera risk can apply locally.
Fishing notes
Fish light tackle with small hooks and subtle presentations close to reef edges, rubble, or sand patches. Use enough weight to keep bait near bottom and avoid heavy tackle that spooks this wary wrasse.