Halichoeres leucurus (Walbaum 1792)

Males recognized by the grey-looking head when seen in natural light. Body with lined pattern until female stage. Males with orange spots along scale rows (Ref. 48636).

Distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 13; Analspines: 3; Analsoft rays: 13

Inhabits shallow lagoon and channel reefs, in coral-rich areas with sand patches to at least 15 m depth (Ref. 9710). Found in silty coastal reef slopes (Ref. 8631). Feeds on small benthic invertebrates.

Found in coral-rich lagoon and inner channel reefs to at least 15 m depth (Ref. 34765); in mixed coral and algae habitats (Ref. 48636). May be found solitary or in pairs (Ref. 90102). Feeds on small benthic invertebrates.