| Pomacentridae (Damselfishes), subfamily: Microspathodontinae |
| 13 cm SL (male/unsexed) |
|
reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 5 m, non-migratory |
| Indo-Pacific: Red Sea and East African coast to the Line and Society Islands, north to the Ryukyu and Bonin Islands, south to New Caledonia and Tonga; throughout Micronesia. |
|
Dorsal spines (total): 12-12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14-16; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 12-14. Description: Overall brown, scale margin dark, dorsal fin base spot black and may have pale edge. Body depth 1.9-2.0 in SL (Ref. 90102). |
| A territorial species commonly found in coral reef areas with dead staghorn corals. Adults feed on filamentous algae supported by these dead corals. Frequently charge human intruders without hesitation, sometimes taking painful nips which are mildly alarming when unexpected. Particularly aggressive during reproductive periods. They emit a clicking noise during aggressive encounters. Act aggressively toward most herbivorous fishes and some other fishes; defend its territory for feeding advantages (Ref. 47011). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205). |
|
Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
|
| traumatogenic |
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