How to spot the Humphead wrasse when scuba diving
Cheilinus undulatus
Indo-Pacific: Red Sea and East Africa eastward to the Tuamoto Islands (French Polynesia), north to Ryukyu Islands (Japan), south to New Caledonia and the Great Barrier Reef.
Encountered during daytime dives, roaming the reef. Encounterable year-round in their habitat.
Tropical waters.
Found on coral reef slopes, reef edges, and lagoon reefs, from shallow (~1m) down to 100m. Often seen cruising along steep drop-offs or reef crests. Some individuals become habituated to divers at specific sites (e.g., Blue Corner, Palau; some Red Sea sites; Cod Hole, GBR) and can be quite curious and approachable. Avoid touching them. Look for them near caves or ledges where they might rest at night.
Worldwide observation of the Humphead wrasse
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Data sources
- Photos: Wikimedia Commons
- Distribution and specie data: GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)
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