Sling-Jaw Wrasse

Epibulus insidiator

Sling-Jaw Wrasse

The sling jaw wrasse shoots out an extraordinary tube shaped mouth to snatch small crustaceans and fish from reef crevices, extending its jaw by a length nobody would guess from its closed face. It lives on coral rich lagoon and seaward reefs and sometimes drifts along with floating leaves. Eating it has been tied to ciguatera poisoning.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Eupercaria incertae sedis › Labridae › Epibulus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 218972.

FAQ

How deep does the Sling-Jaw Wrasse live?
The Sling-Jaw Wrasse (Epibulus insidiator) is typically found at 0–50 m.
Is the Sling-Jaw Wrasse dangerous to divers?
The Sling-Jaw Wrasse is harmless to divers.
How big does the Sling-Jaw Wrasse get?
The Sling-Jaw Wrasse grows to about 54 cm.