Description:

Dorsal spines: 9; Dorsal rays: 12; Anal spines: 3; Anal rays: 12.

Moderately slender wrasse, dorsal profile of head somewhat convex. 2 prominent canines at front of each jaw, subsequent teeth gradually smaller in size 
along each jaw. First dorsal spine moderately prolonged in adults. Second spine longer than 3rd. Pelvic fins do not reach origin of anal fin. Caudal fin 
rounded. 

Colour: 4 salmon pink stripes on body, the lowermost broken into irregular spots posteriorly. Head with irregular bands and a black spot, edged posteriorly
with yellow, on opercular flap. Variable colouration including green, white, orange and pink, often lighter ventrally. Broad dark bars may be present on 
upper side. A large diffuse blackish spot at base of caudal fin. Outer part of first 2 interspinous membranes od dorsal fin blackish.   
 

Maturity: Unknown. Max length: 20.0 cm TL.
 

Inhabits areas of sand and rubble near coral in lagoons, bays and protected seasward reefs (depth 1-57 m). Feeds on benthic organisms including small 
crustaceans and molluscs. Oviparous, forms pairs during breeding.
 

This species is not protected or subject to fishery regulations. It is not subject to the artisanal fishery.

Photographed off northwest coast of Mahé, Seychelles.

Craig, M. & Sadovy, Y.J. (2010). Coris caudimacula. The IUCN Red List 2010:  https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2010-4.RLTS.T155006A4692553.en. (15/05/23)
Froese, R. & D. Pauly. Eds. (2023). FishBase. Coris caudimacula, Spottail coris. https://www.fishbase.se/summary/8026 (15/05/23). 
Mason-Parker, C. et al. (2021). Coris caudimacula in Reef Fishes of Seychelles. John Beaufoy Publishing Ltd, UK. 
Smith, J.L.B. & Smith, M.M. (1963). The Fishes of Seychelles. Department of Ichthyology. Rhodes University. Grahamstown. 
Smith, M. & Heemstra, P. (Eds.) (1999). Smiths’ Sea Fishes Edition 6. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 10.1007/978-3-642-82858-4

Mason-Parker, C. & Nevill, J.E.G. (2023). Coris caudimacula, Spottail coris. Seychelles Seatizens. www.seatizens.sc. https://seatizens.sc/species/coris-caudimacula-quoy-gaimard-1834/