What Divers Should Know About
Maori Wrasse

When exploring Indo-Pacific coral reefs, divers often encounter the magnificent Maori wrasse, also known as the humphead or napoleon wrasse. This species is hard to miss, distinguished by its impressive size, thick lips, and two distinct black lines behind its eyes. Larger adults develop a characteristic prominent hump on their forehead, while their coloration can range from olive to vibrant green and purplish-blue, often with yellow lines adorning the head.

As the largest member of the wrasse family, males can reach an imposing 229 centimeters (90 inches) and live for around 30 years, though average individuals encountered are closer to 60 centimeters. You'll typically spot these long-lived fish on steep coral reef slopes, channels, and in lagoons, often between 2 and 60 meters deep. While usually observed individually, divers may also find them in male-female pairs or small groups. These are highly opportunistic predators, playing a crucial role in reef health by consuming various invertebrates, including the destructive crown-of-thorns starfish.