Parupeneus pleurostigma (Bennett, 1831)

Nomenclature

Parupeneus pleurostigma, also known by its scientific binomial Parupeneus pleurostigma (Bennett, 1831), reaches a total length of 20 to 33 centimetres (7.9 to 13.0 inches).

Fin Ray Count

It has nine dorsal soft rays, seven anal soft rays, and sixteen pectoral rays.

Body and Fin Shape

Its snout is slightly convex, and the margin of its caudal-fin lobes ranges from straight to slightly convex.

Body Coloration

Its body color varies from pinkish to yellowish gray, with a broad black spot along the lateral line that is sometimes followed by a large pinkish spot.

Scale and Fin Markings

A black band is present below the basal dorsal fin, and blue spots appear on the scales located above the lateral line.

Barbel Coloration

The two barbels that extend from its chin are pale pink to white.

Geographical Range

This species is native to the Indian and Pacific oceans, where its range extends from East Africa to Hawaii, the Line Islands, Marquesas Islands, and Tuamotus, and from the Ryukyu Islands to Lord Howe Island, Rapa Iti, and French Polynesia.

Ecological Classification

These are tropical benthopelagic goatfishes.

Habitat and Depth Range

They are found mainly in island waters, occurring on coral and rocky seaward reefs, over sandy and coral bottoms, and in shallow lagoons, at depths between 40 and 120 metres (130 to 390 feet).