Southern Tubelip

Labropsis australis

Southern Tubelip

A tubelip wrasse of shallow reefs with heavy coral cover, it feeds as an adult on coral polyps drawn through its fleshy lips. The juveniles earn their keep instead by cleaning parasites and mucus from other reef fish.

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

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 278464.

FAQ

How deep does the Southern Tubelip live?
The Southern Tubelip (Labropsis australis) is typically found at 2–55 m.
Is the Southern Tubelip dangerous to divers?
The Southern Tubelip is harmless to divers.
How big does the Southern Tubelip get?
The Southern Tubelip grows to about 10.5 cm.