Aulostomus chinensis (Linnaeus, 1766)

Maximum Size

Aulostomus chinensis is a medium-sized fish that can reach a maximum length of 80 cm.

Body and Snout Shape

It has an elongated, laterally compressed body with a long, tubular snout, which bears a small barbel at its lower tip.

Mouth Structure

Its protrusible mouth can extend forward to capture prey.

Dorsal Fin Structure

The dorsal fin is split into two parts on the posterior upper portion of the body: the forward anterior first part is made up of isolated spines, while the second rear part is a small ray fin.

Anal Fin Structure

This second dorsal fin matches the shape of the anal fin, which sits directly beneath it.

Pelvic Fin Features

Small pelvic fins are located mid-body, and each bears a single black spot at its base.

Base Body Coloration

Body coloration ranges from uniform to mottled, in shades of grey, brown, or dark green.

Yellow Morph Coloration

Some individuals are solid bright yellow.

Rear Body and Tail Markings

The rear portion of the body is typically black and covered in white dots, and two black spots are present on the tail.

Caudal Peduncle and Fin Color

The combined structure of the elongated caudal peduncle and caudal fin is yellowish, regardless of the fish's overall body color.

Caudal Fin Spot Patterns

The caudal fin usually has two round black spots: at least one black spot is always present on the upper section, and a second spot sometimes appears on the lower section.

Geographical Distribution

This species occurs in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, but is not found in the Red Sea.

Habitat and Depth Range

It inhabits clear, calm waters around rocky and coral reefs, ranging from the surface down to 120 meters deep.

Additional Observation Location

It has also been observed around Bonaire.