Rainbow Cale

Heteroscarus acroptilus

Sea Life Native IUCN: Least Concern

About

Males have two rows of broad dark blotches along the sides, iridescent blue lines on the head, a blue submarginal band on the dorsal, anal and pelvic fins, and elongate anterior dorsal-fin spines. Females and juveniles are yellowish to greenish or reddish-brown with dark markings on the sides.

Size

Can grow to around 24cm

Habitat

Rocky Reefs and sea grass beds up to a depth of 15m

Distribution

Southern Australian coasts

Gallery

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Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (3)

Bray, D.J. 2017, Heteroscarus acroptilus in Fishes of Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2012 (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Quick Facts

Common name: Rainbow Cale
Scientific name: Heteroscarus acroptilus (Richardson 1846)
Family: Labridae
Category: Sea Life › Fish
Origin: Native
Conservation: Least Concern

Australian Faunal Directory

Also Known As

Marine Rainbowfish

Information Website

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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.