Psychedelic Wrasse

Anampses chrysocephalus is known for its vibrant coloration and marked sexual dimorphism. Juveniles and females are typically dark brown or black with white spots on each scale and a red tail edged with a white band. Terminal-phase males exhibit bright orange-red heads with electric blue lines and spots, and their bodies display brown coloration with iridescent blue speckling. Males can reach a maximum length of about 17 cm, while females are smaller, usually between 7 and 10 cm. Like other members of its genus, the psychedelic wrasse is a protogynous hermaphrodite, capable of changing sex from female to male depending on social hierarchy.

Anampses chrysocephalus is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It typically inhabits reef slopes and rocky coastal areas, preferring sandy substrates with coral and rock cover. Adults are found at depths ranging from 15 to 50 meters, though the full depth range extends from 12 to 139 meters. Juveniles are often seen at slightly shallower depths.