Cyclichthys spilostylus (Leis & Randall, 1982)

Maximum Length

Cyclichthys spilostylus, commonly known as the spotbase burrfish, can reach a maximum length of 34 centimeters.

Body Spines

Individuals of this fish species have short, rigid spines covering their body.

Fin Ray Count

They have between 11 and 13 dorsal soft rays, and between 10 and 12 anal soft rays.

Body Coloration

Their body coloration is dusky on the upper half and light on the lower half.

Spine Base Markings

Each spine grows from a contrasting spot: spots are lighter on the upper part of the body, and darker on the lower part.

Fin and Caudal Peduncle Traits

All of this species' fins are unspotted, and no spines are present on the caudal peduncle.

Indo-Pacific Distribution

This species is distributed from the Red Sea to South Africa, and eastward as far as southern Japan, the Philippines, Australia, and New Caledonia.

Additional Range Records

It is also found around the Galapagos Islands, and in rare instances has been observed in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.

Habitat Depth Range

The spotbase burrfish inhabits coastal waters near and around reefs, at depths ranging from 3 meters to 90 meters.

Substrate and Habitat Types

It can be found in seagrass habitats and on coastal slopes that host sponges.

Activity Pattern

During the day, it usually stays under rock or coral ledges, and it is active at night.

Adult Social Behavior

It is generally a solitary species.

Juvenile Habitat

Juvenile spotbase burrfish are pelagic.