Napoleon Wrasse
Cheilinus undulatus
Sighting evidence at Shark Island, Kosrae
Photo: David Roche · CC BY-NC
Napoleon wrasse appear at Shark Island in numbers rarely seen in the western Pacific — up to six individuals on a single dive — reflecting Kosrae's effective no-take enforcement. These animals grow to 2 meters and live for decades; the largest individuals at this site carry the physical bulk that only comes with truly old age. Juveniles have also been observed in the shallower coral heads, suggesting successful local reproduction rather than immigration from elsewhere.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Napoleon Wrasse is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.