Christmas Wrasse
Thalassoma trilobatum
Christmas wrasse is a colorful Indo-Pacific reef fish that lives close to coral and rocky bottoms. It is an active day-feeder that picks small invertebrates from the reef, and it is not a major target for most anglers.
Identification points
- Brightly colored wrasse with a long, continuous dorsal fin
- Adult males often show vivid green, blue, and reddish-orange patterning with a pale face
- Slender, streamlined body with a pointed snout and small mouth
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, reef flats, lagoons, and rocky coastal areas with good cover; usually associated with warm tropical marine waters.
Bait notes
Small pieces of shrimp, crab, squid, or marine worm can take it on light tackle; tiny soft plastics and small jig heads may also work near reef structure. It is generally an incidental catch rather than a primary game fish.
Behavior
Diurnal and highly active, it forages over the reef picking crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and other small benthic prey from rock and coral surfaces.
Caution
Reef-associated wrasses can be subject to local size, bag, or harvest rules, and some reef fish may carry ciguatera risk depending on location; check local advisories before eating. Avoid handling with bare hands around sharp reef structure.
Fishing notes
Fish light line and small hooks around reef edges, rubble, and drop-offs, presenting baits close to the bottom without snagging. Use careful boat or shore positioning to avoid coral damage and release quickly if not keeping fish.