Doubleheader, Coris bulbifrons (Randall & Kuiter, 1982)

Scientific name: Coris bulbifrons
Doubleheader, Coris bulbifrons Click to enlarge image
A Doubleheader at a depth of18m, Noddy Island, Lord Howe Island, December 2008. Image: Erik Schlögl
© Erik Schlögl

Fast Facts

  • Classification
    Genus
    Coris
    Species
    bulbifrons
    Family
    Labridae
    Order
    Perciformes
    Class
    Actinopterygii
    Subphylum
    Vertebrata
    Phylum
    Chordata
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    The species grows to 60 cm in length.

Introduction

The Doubleheader is a large blue wrasse that lives in tropical waters. Adults develop a bump on the head.

Identification

The Doubleheader can be recognised by its colouration and the prominent bump that develops on the head of both males and females

Doubleheader, Coris bulbifrons

A Doubleheader at a depth of18m, Noddy Island, Lord Howe Island, December 2008.

Image: Erik Schlögl
© Erik Schlögl

Distribution

It is known from northern New South Wales, Elizabeth and Middleton Reefs, Lord Howe Island, and Norfolk Island.

The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.

References

  1. Francis. M.P. 1993. Checklist of the Coastal Fishes of Lord Howe, Norfolk, and Kermadec Islands, south-west Pacific Ocean. Pacific Science. 47(2): 136-170.
  2. Randall, J.E. & R.H. Kuiter, 1982. Three New Labrid Fishes of the Genus Coris from the Western Pacific. Pacific Science. 36(2): 159-173.