Description

The Hemigymnus fasciatus, of the order of Perciformes and family of Labridae (Wrasses) is commonly known as the Banded thicklip, Barred thicklip, Barred thicklip wrasse, Barred wrasse, Five-banded wrasse. There several colour patterns depending on age and sex. Juveniles are dark brown with 6 thin irregular white bars; its head has pale yellow lines that radiate from the eye and lips are whitish. Females are black with four white stripes; head is green on the above slowing grading into yellow with large blue rimmed pink bands and black pelvic fins. Males are similar to females but often the white bars have a green tint; a dark green or black spot is present behind the eye; smaller black spots are present on the nape; pink band has black tint and pelvic fins are green^[1]. It has total of 9 dorsal spines, 10 to 11 dorsal soft rays, 3 anal spines and 11 anal soft rays^[2].