Abstract The Labridae is a species-rich family of colorful fishes distributed globally in different habitats. Polylepion cruentum was described based on type material collected from the Gulf of California, and Quepos, Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It has since been reported from several other localities, including Mexico to Nicaragua and the Cocos Island. Recent collecting efforts in Northern Peru yielded an unusual species of labrid with uncertain taxonomic identity. Measurements, counts, coloration (in life and preserved) and DNA barcoding of the specimen agrees well with Polylepion cruentum. This represents the first record of the species from Northern Peru (Acapulco, Tumbes Department) and South America. The expansion of the distribution range of this species is perhaps due to the input of warm waters to Northern Peru, increasing especially during El Niño events. This new record is important to include in future marine checklists and consequently evaluate the conservation status of this species in Peru.