Although it appears in a variety of colors, its diagonal cheek stripes always make it identifiable
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Its body is elongated and tapers slightly towards the mouth. It has characteristic thick lips, clearly visible fin rays, and a distinctively rounded, D-shaped pectoral fin.
Predatory fish
The Bandcheek wrasse is neither dangerous nor venomous.

1. Distinctive, thin stripes
2. Thick fin rays
This peculiar fish is a loner. Instead of hiding, it boldly swims toward divers when encountered.
It exhibits predatory behavior towards smaller fish.
It is often found in coral-rich bays, lagoons, and outer reefs.
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Text: Carolina Leiter
Pic: Felician Hosp
Illustration: Dive Dict