Graysby

Graysby, Juvenile

The Graysby has a body that can be pale brown to gray-green and is covered with many small, dark reddish-brown spots. The reddish-brown spots are also found on its fins, which are a darker reddish-brown color. Its tail is rounded an can have a thin pale edge. Juveniles have a white stripe on the top of their heads and may also have thin blue stripes on the lower part of their cheeks.

The Graysby can be seen alone near protective crevices or resting motionless on coral heads and sponges. It feeds mainly at night, with adults eating small fish such as Chromis and juveniles feeding on shrimp. It hunts by ambushing its prey, waiting until a smaller creature swims by. The Graysby begins life as a female and later changes into a male, with the male defending a territory that includes several females. It is known for aggressive mouth-to-mouth clashes, especially between males, which can precede spawning during the afternoon. It can live up to 13 years.