Pinstriped Wrasse

Halichoeres melanurus

Pinstriped Wrasse (Halichoeres melanurus) is a reef-associated Indo-Pacific wrasse with a yellow-green body, fine blue striping, and a dark tail spot. It is not a major angling target; most captures are incidental on light tackle around coral rubble and reefs.

Saltwater

Pinstriped Wrasse reference image — Rickard Zerpe, cc-by, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Slender wrasse with fine dark pinstripes running lengthwise on the body
Distinct dark spot near the upper base of the tail
Yellow-green to greenish body with a pointed snout and continuous dorsal fin

Habitat

Shallow coral reefs, reef flats, lagoon edges, and adjacent sand-and-rubble bottoms with scattered coral; typically in warm tropical marine water.

Bait notes

Small pieces of shrimp, squid, crab, or marine worms on tiny hooks can take it when present; very small soft plastics or micro jigs may also work, but it is usually caught incidentally rather than targeted.

Behavior

Diurnal and active over open reef structure, picking small crustaceans, worms, and other benthic invertebrates from the bottom and among coral heads; juveniles often use shallower sheltered reef areas.

Caution

Reef-caught individuals may carry ciguatera risk depending on location; avoid consuming larger reef fish from risky tropical areas unless local guidance says it is safe. Handle carefully around coral to avoid cuts.

Fishing notes

Use ultralight tackle, small hooks, and light leaders near reef edges or sand pockets beside coral; fish close to bottom with a natural presentation and be ready for quick strikes. Avoid heavy terminal gear that spooks small wrasses.