About Thalassoma lucasanum (Gill, 1862)
Taxonomy and Naming
The Cortez rainbow wrasse, with the scientific name Thalassoma lucasanum, is a species of wrasse that is native to the eastern Pacific Ocean.
Native Range
Its native range extends from Baja California to Peru, and it also occurs around the Galapagos Islands.
Habitat and Schooling Behavior
This species inhabits reef environments, where it forms small schools.
Depth Range
It can be found from the ocean surface down to depths of 64 meters (210 feet), though it is rarely found deeper than 25 meters (82 feet) or shallower than 2 meters (6.6 feet).
Population Abundance
The Cortez rainbow wrasse is generally a very common species.
Human Use
It is sold in the aquarium trade.
Maximum Size
When fully grown, this species can reach a total length of 15 centimeters (5.9 inches).
Adult Diet
Adult individuals feed on small organisms including crustaceans, plankton, and fish eggs.
Juvenile Behavior
Juvenile Cortez rainbow wrasses act as cleaner fish.
