Stolephorus multibranchus Wongratana, 1987
Caroline anchovy
Stolephorus multibranchus
photo by FAO

Family:  Engraulidae (Anchovies), subfamily: Engraulinae
Max. size:  6 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 50 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Ponape [=Pohnpei], Caroline Islands.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 18-20. Belly with 2 to 4 small needle-like pre-pelvic scutes. Maxilla tip pointed, reaching lower hind margin of pre-operculum; hind border of pre-operculum convex, rounded. Isthmus muscle tapering evenly forward to hind border of branchial membrane. Pelvic fins long. Silver stripe down flank; a pair of dark lines along back from head to dorsal fin origin.
Biology:  A schooling species found in coastal waters. More data needed.
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 28 February 2017 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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