Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Labridae
- Genus
- Iniistius
- Species
- pavo
Habitat
Peacock Wrasses inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas in tropical waters, preferring depths of 5 to 50 meters. They are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas with abundant hiding spots like crevices and overhangs for protection from predators.
Diet
They primarily feed on small crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms such as sea urchins. Feeding involves actively foraging during the day, using their powerful jaws to crush hard-shelled prey on the reef substrate.
Behavior
Peacock Wrasses are typically solitary or form loose pairs, defending small territories around coral reefs. They exhibit protogynous hermaphroditism, where females can change to males if the dominant male is removed. These fish are diurnal, active hunters during the day, and often hide in crevices at night.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.