Ostracion cyanurus Rüppell, 1828

Maximum Length

Ostracion cyanurus Rüppell, 1828 has a maximum published total length of 15 cm (5.9 inches).

Fin Ray Count

Both its dorsal fin and anal fin each have 9 soft rays, while its caudal fin has 10 soft rays, 8 of which are branched.

Head Dorsal Profile

Females have a slightly concave dorsal profile of the head, whereas males have a convex dorsal head profile.

Mouth Features

This species has fleshy, protruding lips and chin.

Adult Male Coloration

Adult males typically have dark blue spotted flanks and lower body, with an unspotted greenish-yellow upper body.

Adult Female Coloration

Females are yellow with blue spots and have red cheeks.

Species Distribution

Ostracion cyanurus is distributed in the Western Indian Ocean, occurring in the Red Sea, around the Arabian Peninsula, and extending into the Persian Gulf as far east as eastern Iran.

Habitat and Depth Range

It inhabits areas with moderate coral growth, at depths ranging from 5 to 50 m (16 to 164 ft).

Human Use

Ostracion cyanurus is sold in the aquarium trade.