PICTORIAL GUIDE TO:

INDONESIAN REEF FISHES MURAENIDAE OPHICHTHIDAE HETEROCONGRIDAE OPHIDIIDAE PLOTOSIDAE

CEPOLIDAE PHOLIDICHTHYIDAE GOBIESOCIDAE ANTENNARIDAE OGCOCEPHALIDAE

HEMIRAMPHIDAE BELONIDAE ATHERINIDAE ENGRAULIDAE CLUPEIDAE

CHANIDAE ALBULIDAE MEGALOPIDAE SYNODONTIDAE MYCTOPHIDAE

ANOMALOPIDAE HOLOCENTRIDAE SYNGNATHIDAE SOLENOSTOMIDAE CENTRISCIDAE

PEGASIDAE DACTYLOPTERIDAE SCORPAENIDAE TETRAROGIDAE APLOACTINIDAE

Part 1
EELS to SNAPPERS
MURAENIDAE TO LUTJANIDAE
PLATYCEPHALIDAE SERRANIDAE SERRANIDAE ANTHIINAE ANTHIINAE

RUDIE H. KUITER & TAKAMASA TONOZUKA

GRAMMISTIDAE PSEUDOCHROMIDAE PLESIOPIDAE ACANTHOCLINIDAE LOBOTIDAE

TERAPONTIDAE PRIACANTHIDAE APOGONIDAE MALACANTHIDAE CARANGIDAE

1 LEIOGNATHIDAE NEMIPTERIDAE LETHRINIDAE HAEMULIDAE LUTJANIDAE

 INDONESIAN REEF FISHES

INTRODUCTION

Indonesian waters surround an estimated 17.5 thousand islands that form a long archipelago within 10° north and south of the equator,
ranging into Indian and Pacific Oceans. The faunas between the major islands of Sumatra in the west and Irian Jaya in the east are
expectedly different, but even between the geographically-close Kalimantan and Sulawesi the differences are substantial. Gravity fed
forces drive the ocean currents in set patterns, changing only slightly during between seasons, but enough to keep faunas isolated
from each other and species to develop differently. During the releatively recent glacial periods the sea level was lower by as much
as about 200 m from todays, and the major islands of Sumatra, Java and Kalimantan were part of mainlain Asia. Currents and recent
events have resulted a high diversity at a species level. In addition the endless varieties of different habitats give further scope for
specialisation.

People entering the water with a mask in various marine habitas are usually greeted by an enormous range of different species of
fish. Surveys in the seas of Banda, Flores & Moluccen indicate that these areas may have the richest species diversity in the world.
In Maumere Bay, Flores, over 100 species of wrasses and almost as many damselfishes were listed from the shallow coastal
habitats (See “The Ecology of the Indonesian Seas, part two”, Tomascik et al, 1997. Periplus Editions). Among the early fish
workers, Pieter Bleeker, a Duth Army Doctor, made descriptions of about 2.5 thousand species from Indonesia since 1854. Whilst
some are different forms of the same species or were described earlier by other, many of the species that Bleeker described remain
valid. The exact number of species that occur on coral reefs or coastal habitats is not know but probably close to 3 thousand. New
species are usually found every time a region is surveyed in Indonesian waters for the first time. Because of recent speciation and
the continuing process of evolution, it can be difficult to determine the exact status of closely related fishes. Many species show
some geographical variations that may be slight between individuals of neighbouring regions, but when comparing individuals from
the extreme of their geographical range they may appear to be specific. On need to study the fauna as a whole, and include various
behavioural aspects, especially with regards to spawning, to be able to determine their status. Colour can play an important roll in
some groups but may of no use in others or difficult to diagnose when they are habitat related. Morphological features too, may
relate to environment or behaviour and a researcher that simply looks at specimens from different areas can easily come to
different conclusions from a researcher that studies the same species in the wild. Individual fishes of the same species can vary
considerable in morphology between those from mainland or oceanic locations, developing differently from possibly the eggs of
same brood. Individuals living in strong current regions are often more slender compared to those in still waters and those in clear
water habitats have different colours from those living in turbulant habitats. Gill rakers develop differently between coastal and outer
reef fishes that feed on plankton that is probably due to availability of food and intake of undesirable matter.

This book serves primarily as an identification guide for surveys or to get familiar with the various species when visiting the coastal
or reef regions, but is also useful for the aquarists that purchases fishes exported from the region. Since many of the species occur
in other parts of the West Pacific, the book is also very useful in the adjacent regions. Nearly all the illustrations are based on pho-
tographs taken in their typical habitat. To make it as complete as possbile, some aquarium or specimen shots are included of the
rare or cryptic ones, but in living colours. Many variations or differences in growth stages and sexes are included and similar species
are shown in succession or close to each other for easy comparison, and scientifically arranged as generally accepted.
First published in 2001 by
With many similar species, new species, confusion of species, finding the true identity of poorly described ones a long time ago,
ZOONETICS
and other problems, the scientific names are often changed. Some names applied commonly to well known species are sometimes
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taken for granted and not questioned but the original description based on another similar species. When many similar species are
Seaford VIC 3198
involved it may take a lot of time and effort to sort them out. A group may be revised, but is rarely complete. In doing this book, the
AUSTRALIA
senior author had to make many taxonomic decisions when the use of certain names were questionable. By giving localities in
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captions with every photograph, the scientific name becomes less relevant as it is the individual in the photograph that represents
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the record for the area. Every effort was made to used the correct scientific name, but most importantly the type-locality (from where
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the original species was described) is provided, as well as the original genus it was assigned to when it was described.
Type-localities can play an important roll when determining closely related species between different areas. Sometimes a name is
Kuiter, R.H. & T. Tonozuka
used for a particular species that doesn’t actually occur in the type locality, obviously needing correcting, which may lead to describ-
Photo guide INDONESIAN REEF FISHES.
ing an original and already named species as new!
Copyright© Zoonetics
In all, with almost 3000 photographs, it is the most comprehensive photographic guide on Indonesian reef fishes ever published
Copyright© in text: Rudie H. Kuiter
and we hope that identification of species is made considerably easier with the use of this book and erBOOK, an electronic version
Copyright© in photographs: actual photographer
on CD-rom.

All taxonomic desitions by Rudie H. Kuiter.

Comments are appreciated and should be send to
<[email protected]>

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 MORAY EELS - MURAENIDAE White Ribbon Eel
Pseudechidna brummeri
A large family with about 10 genera and 150-200 species according to various authors. Most Morays are secretive and live in reefs. Some of the
larger species are usually seen with just their head exposed and most activities are on dusk or at night. They have a strong muscular body with a Muraena brummeri Bleeker, 1858.
tough skin that is coated with a thin layer of mucus. The mouth is often large with long jaws and some species have many long sharp teeth. Some Timor, Indonesia.
possibly have venomous teeth in the roof ot the mouth. Morays are often seen with the mouth open and may appear aggressive, but are general-
Indo-West Pacific. Inshore and reef flats.
ly timid. They rarely bite, and usually only when provoked, but aggression is usually associated with spawning at certain sites. Some accidents
Usually seen on rubble substrate, and
have occurred where divers were encouraged to feed fish on a regular basis, run by tourist operations that is now stopped by most governments.
occasionally it is seen swimming
Depending on the species, moray eels can be found from intertidal zones, even in fresh water, to deep water. Most associate with reefs, but they
between its burrows in shallow protected
can be found in seagrass beds, muddy substrates or rubble heaps on sand. They are commonly seen on shipwrecks that provides lots of shelter.
areas. Length to over 1 m.
They often group together and sometimes in mixed species. Diet comprises invertebrates and fishes, some specialise but most are not fussy in
what they eat. Adult sizes range from about 30 cm to several metres in length.

Ribbon Eel Rhinomuraena quaesita

Rhinomuraena quaesita Garman, 1888. Marshall Isl, Pacific.

Indo-Pacific. Common in Indonesia, coastal to outer reef, 6-40 m depth. Usually

seen in burrow with head exposed, occasionally comes out to swim to other
hole. Juveniles all black, males have yellow dorsal fin and females change to a
nearly all yellow colour, but usually with blue posteriorly, as seen in C. Length A
to 1.2 m with a height of about 4 cm. P. brummeri. Gilimanuk, Bali. 4 m depth. Length about 1 m.

A B
R. quaesita. Two females, sharing borrow. Maumere, Flores. R. quaesita. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi, a small all-yellow, female.

B
P. brummeri. Gilimanuk, Bali. 4 m depth. Length about 1 m.

Golden Moray
Gymnothorax melatremus
Gymnothorax melatremus
Schultz, 1953. Marshall Is.

Indo-West Pacific, coastal reef slopes.

Variable from brown to bright golden yel-
C low and eye with deep blue colour.
R. quaesita. Female, mostly yellow, out of its burrow. Tulamben, Bali. Coastal to outer reef habitats to at least
30 m depth. Length of largest known
specimen 26 cm .

D E
R. quaesita. D Male, mostly black, out of its burrow. Maumere, Flores. E Close-up of head. G. melanotremus. Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra, 20 m depth. About 25 cm long. Photo: G.R.ALLEN

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 Spotted Moray Honeycomb Moray Gymnothorax favagineus
Gymnothorax isingteena Gymnothorax favageneus Bloch & Schneider, 1801. Tranquebar,
Muraena isingteena Richardson, 1845. India.
Canton, China.
Widespread Indo-Pacific. Black spots or blotches that may leave
Widespread Indo-Pacific. This species is called G. very narrow white interspaces that form a honeycomb pattern,
melanospilus, now is a regarded a synonym. It is and some individuals have a near black overall appearance. Often
often confused with the more common G. fav- in holes with cleaner wrasses or shrimps. Length to 1.8 m.
agineus on the next page. Recognised by its gener-
ally more white colour and smaller and rounder
spots. A large species, length to 1.8 m.

A
G. isingteena. Derawan, Kalimantan.

A B
G. favageneus. With cleaner shrimp, Tulamben, Bali. Length 50 cm. G. favageneus. With cleaner Wrasse, south coast Java.

White-mouth Moray Yellow-mouth Moray

Gymnothorax meleagris Gymnothorax nudivomer
Muraena meleagris Shaw, 1795. Southern Ocean. Muraena nudivomer Günther, 1867. Zanzibar.

West Pacific. Body dark brown to black and numerous pupil-sized Widespread West Pacific. Body dark yellow-brown numerous, smaller than
white spots all over. Inside of the mouth white. Intertidal and shal- pupil-sized white spots all over. Inside of the mouth yellow. Mainly in ocean-
low reef flats amongst corals, often seen hunting during low tide ic locations and seems to be rare in Indonesia. Length to 1 m.
amonst partly exposed reefs. Length to 1 m.

B
G. isingteena. Derawan, Kalimantan. Diver drawning large individual from its hole by, ticing it with food. Large adult

White-edged Moray
Gymnothorax albimarginatus
Muraena albimarginata
Temminck & Schlegel, 1846. Japan.
Reported as widespread West Pacific, but true
species (B, juv.) only in Japan. Coastal reef sand
slopes. Secretive in reefs during the day. Moves out
over sand at night to hunt. Length to 1 m.

A B
G. cf albimarginatus. Tulamben, Bali. Night, 25 m depth. Length about 45 cm. G. albimarginatus. Kashiwajima, Japan. G. meleagris. Iriomote Island, Japan. G. nudivomer. Solitary Islands, NSW, Australia. Gary Bell.

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 Yellow-edged Moray White-eyed Moray
Gymnothorax flavimarginatus Siderea thyrsoidea
Muraena flavimarginatus Rüppell, 1830. Red Sea. Muraena thyrsoides Richardson, 1845.
Canton, China Seas.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Along drop-offs and
common on shallow protected reefs in Indonesia. Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Usually in pairs or
Juveniles sometimes bright yellow with brown small aggregations, and shares habitat with other
blotches. A large species, length to 2.4 m. morays. A common inshore species, often on
shipwrecks. Length to 60 cm.

A B
S. thyrsoidea. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. S. thyrsoidea. Sanur lagoon, Bali. Depth 1 m.

A B
G. flavimarginatus. Tulamben, Bali. A at 25 m, with cleaner shrimp Lysmata amboinensis. B juvenile at 6 m depth.

Giant Moray
Gymnothorax javanicus
Muraena javanica Bleeker, 1859. Java.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Commonly seen

species by divers along deep drop-offs and slopes in
Indonesian waters. A large black blotch around the
gill-opening and numerous small ones on the poste-
rior part of the body as shown in A. Length to 2.4 m.

D
C S thyrsoidea. Sydney, Australia. Putting its body into a know to get
S. thyrsoidea. Sharing ledge with Gymnothorax fimbriatus. Milne Bay, PNG. leverage to tare meat from the scallop.

A B E
G. javanicus. A Northern Sulawesi, depth 30 m. Large adult. B Derawan, Kalimantan, depth 15 m. S. thyrsoidea. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Sharing crevice. Dark-eyed moray is probably G. moluccensis.

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 Spot-face Moray Gymnothorax fimbriatus Banded Mud Moray Gymnothorax chlamydatus Flores Mud Moray Gymnothorax sp
Muraena fimbriata Bennett, 1832. Mauritius. Gymnothorax chlamydatus Snyder, 1908. Okinawa, Japan.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Few, but distinct black spots on Southern Japan to northern Indonesia. Body with broad black bands. Undetermined species. Muddy coastal parts of the bay, seen between
the head. Shallow lagoons and coastal reefs. Length to 55 cm. Coastal sand and mud habitat, living in holes near rubble or reef. 3 and 35 m depth. Length to about 45 cm.
Length to 60 cm.

A
G. fimbriatus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi.

B C
G. fimbriatus. Tumlamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. G. fimbriatus. Tumlamben, Bali. Depth 12 m.

Undulate Moray Gymnothorax undulatus

Muraenophis undulata Lacepède, 1803. No locality. G. chlamydatus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 10 m. Miki TONOZUKA G. sp. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m.

Widespread Indo-Pacific. Coastal to outer reef habitats to at

least 25 m depth. Hunts sleeping fishes at night. Length to 1 m.
Indian Mud Moray Gymnothorax tile Little Moray Gymnothorax richardsonii
Muraenophis tile Hamilton, 1822. Ganges Estuary, near Calcutta, India. Muraena richardsonii Bleeker, 1852. Ceram & Sumatra, Indonesia.
Western Indonesia and Singapore. Estuarine species in muddy estuar- Sanur lagoon, Bali. Depth 1 m. West Pacific. Shallow reef flats and
ies and enters rivers. Length to 53 cm. estuaries. Length to 30 cm.

A B
G. undulatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length ~85 cm. G. undulatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. L. ~75 cm.

Bar-tail Moray Gymnothorax zonipectis

Gymnothorax zonipectis Seale, 1906. Tahiti.

Indo-Pacific. Juveniles distinctly marked on the head (A) and

adults plain brown, but showing black barring posteriorly on the
dorsal and anal fins on the tail (B). Found in rich-coral reefs in
6 to 40 m depth. Secretive in reefs during the day, usually only
seen at night. Length to 50 cm.
A
G. zonipectis. Northern Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 35 cm.

B
G. zonipectis. Maumere, Flores, night. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm. G. tile. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length about 50 cm. G. richardsonii. Sanur lagoon, Bali. Depth 1 m. Length 25 cm.

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 Dusky-banded Moray Gymnothorax reticularis Spotted Snake Moray
Gymnothorax reticularis Bloch, 1795. Tranquebar, India. Scuticaria tigrina
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Has broad dark bands that Ichthyophis tigrinus Lesson, 1828.
are distinct when juvenile but break up in large individuals. Society Islands.
Coastal slopes to deep offshore, reported to 100 m depth. Indo-Pacific. Easily recognised by the
Length to 60 cm. blotched pattern and rounded snout.
Secretive, usually only seen at night.
Length to 1.2 m.

S. tigrina. Tumlamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 60 cm.

A B
G. reticularis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. G. reticularis. Tumlamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Gosline’s Snake Moray
Uropterygius goslinei
Textile Moray Gymnothorax chilospilus Uropterygius goslinei McCosker &
Gymnothorax chilospilus Bleeker, 1865. Randall, 1977. Palau.
Sumatra & Ambon.
West Pacific. Secretive in shallow coastal
Indo-Pacific. Has a blochy/starry banded pattern along the reefs. In algal-rubble patches on reef
body. Occurs on shallow coastal reef flats but ranges to deep crests and in lagoons. Length to 50 cm.
water rubble reefs. Length to 50 cm.

U. goslinei. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 17 cm.

Brown Snake Moray Uropterygius fuscoguttatus Peppered Moray Siderea picta

Uropterygius fuscoguttatus Schultz, 1953. Marshall Islands. Muraena picta Ahl, 1789. East Indies.

Reported from various Pacific locations. Coastal reef slopes amongst Indo-West Pacific. Head white or grey with fine black spotting. Shallow
rubble with algae and invertebrate cover. Length to 30 cm. coastal reefs. May leap from the water to catch crabs. Length to 1 m.

A B
G. chilospilus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. G. chilospilus. Sanur lagoon, Bali. Depth 1 m.

Moluccen Moray Gymnothorax moluccensis Bayer’s Moray Enchelycore bayeri

Priodonophis moluccensis Bleeker, 1865. Ambon. Gymnothorax bayeri Schultz, 1953. Marshall Islands.
West Pacific, probably widespread. Plain brownish grey. Secretive in coastal reefs Indo-West Pacific. Grey, jaws with fang-like teeth. Secretive
and usually only seen out at night. Length to about 45 cm. in reefs, sometimes seen at night. Length to 70 cm.

G. moluccensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length ~35 cm. E. bayeri. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length ~35 cm. U. fuscoguttatus. Tumlamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. S. picta. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 80 cm.

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 Clouded Moray Echidna nebulosa Banded Moray Gymnothorax enigmaticus
Muraena nebulosa Ahl, 1789. East Indies. Gymnothorax enigmaticus McCosker & Randall, 1982. Palau.
West Pacific. Pale creamy white with variable blotched patterns and yellow Indo-West Pacific. Shallow coastal reefs. Sometimes out during the day, its
eyes. Secretive in shallow coastal reefs, sometimes out in the open with banded pattern similar to a seasnake. Length to 50 cm.
favourable tidal conditions to hunt crabs. Length to 1 m.

A B
E. nebulosa. Menjangan I, Bali. Depth 10 m. ~50 cm. E. nebulosa. Sanur lagoon, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 35 cm. G. enigmaticus. Sanur lagoon, Bali. Depth 1 m. Length 40 cm.

Barred Moray Echidna polyzona Double-ended Moray Channomuraena vittatus

Muraena polyzona Richardson, 1845. No locality. Ichthyophis vittatus Richardson, 1845. Locality uncertain ‘China’.

Indo Pacific. Body grey with fine pale barring. Head usually lighter, yellow- Indo-West Pacific. Body white with broad black bands and saddles. Head point-
ish with variable dark blotching. Secretive in reefs, usually seen out at night ed, similar to shape of tail. Shallow coastal reefs. Secretive and nocturnal.
in search for prey. Length to 70 cm. Length to about 60 cm.

A B
E. polyzona. Northern Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. ~50 cm. E. polyzona. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 70 cm. C. vittatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length 22 cm.

Zebra Moray Gymnomuraena zebra Glass Eel Gymnothorax?

Gymnothorax zebra Shaw, 1797. Sumatra. The larval stages of eels are transparent and are pelagic, living amongst the
plankton. This stage is known as Leptocephalus. They have highly com-
Indo-West Pacific. Readily identified by the
pressied, ribbon-like bodies and a small head. Species are virtually impos-
distinctive zebra-like pattern and rounded
sible to tell apart. Sometimes the settling specimens are seen swimming
snout. Coastal reefs. Secretive, usually only
near the bottom in search for a place.
seen at night. Can reach 1 m.

G. zebra. Tulamben, Bali. Night. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm. Gymnothorax? Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Postlarval, length about 75 mm.

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 SNAKE & WORM EELS - OPHICHTHIDAE Estuary Snake Eel Pisonophis cancrivorus
Ophisurus cancrivorus Richardson, 1848.
A very large family, dividable in several subfamilies, with about 50 genera and +250 species worldwide. Distribution of many species Northern Australia.
not well known and often known from a few or single specimens. Few live in the shallow that are seen by divers and most of these
Indo-West Pacific. Variable from grey to black or
live in sand or mud and may show just their head from a burrow. Some mimic sea-snakes and have a black and white pattern of brown. Large individuals have a wrinkled skin. Coastal
bands or spots which are the only species that activily hunt during the day on shallow reefs. Most species are very long and have bays and estuaries. Often in tidal channels where
cylindrical bodies with pointed head and a hardened pointed tail which ables them to bury themselves forwards or backwards in the loose groups congregate, and usually seen with just
sand. Diet comprises small fish and invertebrates such as cephalopods and crustaceans. Sizes are usually under 1 m but some can the head exposed. Length to 75 cm.
reach several metres when fully grown.

Orange Snake Eel Apterichtus flavicaudus Yellow-spotted Snake Eel Ophichthus polyophthalmus
Sphagebranchus flavicaudus Snyder, 1904. Hawaii. Ophichthys polyophthalmus Bleeker, 1865. Ambon.
Indo-West Pacific, ranging to Japan and Hawaii. Shallow coastal clean Indo-West Pacific. Head with ocellated yellow spots. Coastal reefs,
sand habitats near reefs. Length to about 80 cm. amongst rubble heaps and in coarse sand. Length to 50 cm. A B
P. cancrivorus. Pulau Putri, Java. P. cancrivorus. Maumere, Flores.
Depth 3 m. ~85 mm diam. Depth 10 m. ~55 mm diam.

A. flavicaudus. Sydney, Australia. Depth 5 m. Diameter ~35 mm. O. polyophthalmus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m.

Marbled Snake Eel

Callechelys marmorata C
Dalophis marmorata Bleeker, 1853. Sumatra. P. cancrivorus. Gilimanuk, Bali. D
Depth 10 m. ~75 mm diam. P. cancrivorus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 10 m. ~50-75 mm diam.
Indo-West Pacific. Variable white to yellow with
black spots or blotches. Coastal sand and mud
flats and slopes at various depths from about 1 m Vulture Eel Ichtyaous vulturis
down. Often common in estuary channels. Length Spagebranchus vulturis Weber & de Beaufort, 1916.
to 50 cm. Nasi Besar, Sumatra.

Probably widespread and one of a number of similar

species of the Indo-West Pacific that live in sandy to
muddy substrates. Specimens in photograph appear
to be this species. Snout pointed and rat-like. Length
to about 60 cm.

A B C
C. marmorata. A Gilimanuk, Bali, ~50 mm diam. B Maumere, Flores, ~ 45 mm diam. C Tulamben, Bali, ~40 mm diam. Depths 6-15 m. I. vulturis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Scott MICHAEL.

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 Black-finned Snake Eel Ophichthus melanochir Napoleon Eel Ophichthus bonaparti
Ophichthys melanochir Bleeker, 1864. Ambon. Poecilocephalus bonaparti. Kaup, 1856.
Ambon.
Indo-West Pacific. Pectoral fin and anterior part of dor-
sal fin black, but usually just the head visible from its Indo-West Pacific. Head with close-set orange-
burrow. Some individuals were observed swimming brown blotches but body broadly banded with
about openly and well above the seagrass substrate. black and white. Coastal sand and rubble slopes,
Perhaps a time to seek out partners but no interation usually just head visible from the sand during the
was observed and they retreated to their burrows, day. Length to 75 cm.
reversing in. Snout with series of dark blotches below
the mouth. Coastal sand and mudflats. Length to 80 cm.

A
O. melanochir. Mabul, Malaysia. Length 80 cm. Swimming late afternoon.

A
O. bonaparti. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. ~45 mm diam.

B C B C
O. melanochir. Menjangan Isl, Bali. Depth 10 m. ~50 mm diam. O. melanochir. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. ~50 mm diam. O. bonaparti. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. About 35-45 mm in diameter.

Black-neck Snake Eel Ophichthus cephalozona Crocodile Snake Eel

Ophichthys cephalozona Bleeker, 1864. Ambon. Brachysomophis crocodilinus
Ophisurus crocodilinus Bennett, 1833.
Indo-West Pacific. Body pale, almost white, with dark Maurutius.
snout and large black saddle over the back of the head.
Nocturnal, foraging for food at night and hiding in reefs Indo-West Pacific. Grey to brown. Eye small,
during the day. Coastal bays at moderate depths. coloured like the head, and placed towards the
Length to about 1 m. front of the long mouth. Coastal silty habitats,
usually seen with just the snout protruding from
the sand. Length to 1 m.

A
O. cephalozona. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Scott MICHAEL.
B. crocodilinus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. ~50 mm diameter.

Half-banded Snake Eel

Leiuranus semicinctus
Ophisurus semicinctus Lay & Bennett,
1839. Polynesia.

Indo-West Pacific. A common, but rarely

observed species that lives in sand near seagrass
beds and low reef. These eels are usually only
seen when out for spawning activities. Preys on
small fishes at night. Length to 66 cm.

B
O. cephalozona. Tukang Besi, southern Sulawesi. Depth 30 m. Length about 1 m. L. semicinctus. Tukang Besi, southern Sulawesi. Depth 30 m. Length about 1 m.

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 Spotted Snake Eel
Myrichthys maculosus
Muraena maculosa Cuvier, 1816. Indonesia.

Indo-West Pacific. Variable pattern of large black

blotches with narrower white interspaces. Coastal reef
slopes with mixed rubble and invertebrate-rich habi-
tats. Nocturnal, usually seen hunting shallow reef flats
or along slopes at reef margins during the night.
Length to 1 m.

D
M. colubrinus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length ~65 cm.

B
M. maculosus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~1 m.

E
Banded Snake Eel M. colubrinus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~1 m.
Myrichthys colubrinus
Muraena colubrina Boddaert, 1781. Ambon.

Indo-West Pacific. Broadly banded with black and

white, sometimes with blotches, but may comprise
additional species. Coastal reefs flats and lagoons with
sparse seagrasses. Commonly seen hunting during the
day. Usually mistaken for a highly venomous banded
seasnake that it mimicks. Length to almost 1 m.

A
M. colubrinus. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length ~1 m.

B C F
M. colubrinus. B Menjangan I., Bali, Depth 10 m. Akira Ogawa. C Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 2 m. Length ~80 cm. M. colubrinus. Menjangan I., Bali, Depth 10 m. Akira Ogawa. Length ~80 cm.

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 CONGER EELS - CONGRIDAE GARDEN EELS - HETEROCONGRIDAE
A family of mainly deep-water eels, but only one is commonly seen on reefs during nightdives on tropical reefs and some of the A small family, usually included with the congers, with at least two genera and about 10 species in Indonesian waters. Some species colonise in
small species on occasion. It differs from morays in having large pectorsal fins that are completely absent in morays. countless numbers as shown below (A). They occur in current-prone areas on sand flats and slopes, rising vertically from burrows to feed on zoo-
plankton floating over. Many species were only recently described and several more are thought to be new.
Moustache Conger
Conger cinereus
Conger cinereus Rüppell, 1830. Red Sea.

Indo-Pacific. Variable, brown to almost black

with grey bands. A black line slanting back from
below the eye. Pectoral fins and broad margin of
dorsal fin black. Coastal reefs, usually only seen
at night when on the hunt for small fishes and
invertebrates such as crustaceans and
A cephalopods. Length to over 1 m.
C. cinereus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Night. Length ~80 cm.

A
G. japonica. Menjangan Isl, Bali. Depth 21 m.

Pacific Spaghetti Eel Gorgasia japonica Indian Spaghetti Eel Gorgasia maculata
B
C. cinereus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Night. Length ~80 cm.
Gorgasia japonica Abe, Miki & Asai, 1977. Japan. Gorgasia maculata Klausewitz & Eibl-Eibesfeldt, 1959.
Nicobar Is, Indian Ocean.
West Pacific. Few similar species in the Indo-West Pacific, that typical-
Big-eye Conger Head-band Conger ly group as shown in A. They inhabit sand flats adjacent to reef, usually Widespread Indian Ocean, replacing its Pacific cousin there in same
Ariosoma anagoides Diploconger polystigmatus at moderate depth below bases of drop-offs or steep slopes, to feed on habitats. Some colour differences. Head with white blotches and white
plankton drifting over. Body diameter to about 10 mm. blotches along the lateral line. Body diameter to about 10 mm.
Conger anagoides Bleeker, 1853. Banda. Diploconger polystigmatus Kotthaus, 1968.
Somalia.
Uncertain distribution. Large and distinctive
eye with a vertical elongated pupil and white Widespread Indon-West Pacific. Individual in
blotches. Known from Indonesia and report- photograph appears to be this species. The later-
ed from Japan. Several similar species al line pores are in a double row and the dorsal-
throughout the Indo-Pacific. Genus in need fin origin is back from vetical above pectoral-fin
of revision. Length to about 40 cm. base. The median fins have dusky margins and
the caudal fin ends in a black tip. The head has
dark banding, especially over the top between
the eyes. A rarely observed species that is gen-
erally known from trawl over muddy substrates.
I t reaches a length of about 30 cm.
A. anagoides. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. ~35 mm diam.

B
D. polystigmatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Lenth 20 cm. Miki Tonozuka. G. japonica. Menjangan Isl, Bali. Depth 21 m. G. maculata. Pulau Weh, Sumatra. Depth 28 m.

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 Splendid Garden Eel Gorgasia preclara Sharp-nose Garden Eel Gorgasia taiwanensis Peppered Garden Eel Heteroconger sp 1
Gorgasia preclara Böhlke & Randall, 1981. Philippines. Gorgasia taiwanensis Shao, 1990. Taiwan. Undetermined species only known from the photograph localities. Light to dark brown with fine
white spotting. Soft bottom habitat, semi-silty sand or mud slopes and flats. Solitary and large
Indo-West Pacific. Banded with yellow to orange. Single to small aggregations West Pacific, Indonesia to Taiwan and southern Japan. species, body diameter about 20 mm.
on deep sand flats adjacent to reefs. Body diameter to about 10 mm. Identified by shape of snout. Body diameter to about 15 mm.

A B
H. sp 1. Menjangan Isl, Bali. Depth 6 m. H. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m.
A B
G. preclara. A Menjangan Isl at 40 m. B Juv. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 35 m. G. taiwanensis. North-east coast, Bali. Depth 15 m. Zebra Garden Eel
Heteroconger polyzona
Taylor’s Garden Eel Heteroconger taylori Heteroconger polyzona Bleeker, 1868.
Heteroconger taylori Castle & Randall, 1995. PNG. Ambon.
Indonesia and New Guinea. Occurs singly or in small Indonesia, Ambon to Flores and Bali. Body with
groups. Sometimes yellow with black spots. Coastal zebra-like barring. Occurs on shallow coastal
mud slopes. Diameter to about 20 mm. mud flats, usually in moderate sized aggrega-
tions that appear during current runs. Body
diameter about 15 mm.

A B C A B C D
H. taylori. A Menjangan Isl, Bali. Depth 30 m. B Juvenile. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 40 m. C Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. H. polyzona. A Tulamben, Bali. Depth 4 m. B–D Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m.

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 Spotted Garden Eel Heteroconger hassi Derawan Garden Eel Heteroconger sp 2 LINGS- OPHIDIIDAE
Xarifania hassi Klausewitz & Eible-Eibesfeldt, 1959. Maldives. Undetermined species, possibly a juvenile of a known
species. Derawan, Kalimantan. A very large family with about 50 genera and over 150 species,globally. Only one is commonly seen on reefs at night. This species
Indo-West Pacific. Variable but usually two large black spots are obvious. Common
is usually mistaken for a catfish because of the barbels around the mouth, but has feeler like ventral fins.
species on sand flats adjacent to reefs. Body diameter to about 14 mm.

Bearded Rockling Brotula multibarbata

Brotula multibarbata Temminck & Schlegel, 1846. Japan.

Widespread tropical Indo-Pacifc. Coastal reefs, usually along

steep slopes and on drop-offs with lots of crevices. Hunts at night
for fishes and various mobile invertebrates such as cephalopods.
Length to 40 cm.

A B
B. multibarbata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Juvenile, 15 cm. B. multibarbata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 40 cm.

A B
H. hassi. A Menjangan Isl. Depth 12 m. B Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. H. sp 2. Padang Bai, Bali. Depth 10 m. FORK-TAILED CATFISHES - ARIIDAE
A large family with about 20 genera and 120 species, many of which of commercial importance. They are mainly found in muddy
Black Garden Eel Heteroconger perissodon Pale-ear Garden Eel Heteroconger lentiginosus
habitats, either deep or in estuaries, and some entering freshwater. Males incubate the brood in their mouth for periods up to 6
Heteroconger perissodon Böhlke & Randall, 1981. Philippines. Heteroconger lentiginosus Böhlke & Randall, 1981.
weeks. Diet comprises fishes and invertebrates.
Marquesas Isl, South Pacific.
Indonesia and Philippines. Grey to brown and a pale blotch over gills. Common in Mainly known from Pacific locations. Seen singly in Bali.
muddy habitats, coastal bays. to 35 m depth. Diameter to about 24 mm. Diameter to about 20 mm. Sunda Sea-Catfish Arius sagor
Pimelodus sagor Hamilton, 1822. Bengal Estuaries.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal waters and estuaries.

A B
H. perissodon. A Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. B Tulamben, Bali. Depth 3 m. H. lentiginosus. Padang Bai, Bali. Depth 10 m. A. sagor. Underwater World, Jakarta, Java. Length ~45cm.

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 EELTAIL CATFISHES - PLOTOSIDAE
A large group, but mainly freshwater fishes, comprising about 25 families worldwide. The family Plotosidae comprises 8 genera but
only one species is commonly found on tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific. All catfishes should be handled with care as the fins have
venomous spines and repeated stings can be fatal. As the name suggests, this families representatives have an ell-like tail.

Striped Catfish Plotosus lineatus

Plotosus lineatus Valenciennes, 1840. Indo-West Pacific.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to sub-tropical

regions. Also known as Coral Catfish. Common species in
estuaries and sheltered bays in silty habitats. Small juveniles
swim in tight formations (B) and take-on shapes of various
objects that maybe found in the same area. B may look like a
black urchin at a distance and the small siphonfishes,
Siphamia, swimming on top seem to think so, as these nor-
mally seek refuge amongst the urchin spines. However, cat-
fishes have venomous spines and perhaps the siphonfishes
have learned to take advantage of this. Juveniles ‘graze’ the
bottom for detritus (C) but are occasionally seen doing this on
A living corals, perhaps when silt has settled on them. Adults
P. lineatus. Tulamben, Depth 10 m.
occasionally school in estuaries, but are usually seen solitary
or in small aggregation underneath pieces of debris or in low
crevices on reefs during the day. Length to 25 cm.

F
P. lineatus. Maumere, Flores. Juveniles about 10 cm.

Black-tip Catfish Plotosus canius

Plotosus canius Hamilton, 1822. Bengal, India.
D
P. lineatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 16 cm. Indo-West Pacific, known form India and Malay Peninsula. Mainly lives
in estuaries, brackish lakes and lower reaches of rivers. A plain dusky-
brown species with a black dorsal fin tip. Shows banded pattern at
night. Distinguished from adult Plotosus lineatus by its long barbels on
the nostrils that can reach passed the eyes. A large species, reported
to 90 cm in length.
B
P. lineatus. Maumere, Flores. Juveniles about 10 mm.

C E
P. lineatus. Maumere, Flores. Juveniles about 65 mm. P. lineatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 22 cm. P. canius. Gilimanuk, Bali. Length 35 cm. Depth 7 m. Night. Miki Tonozuka.

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 BANDFISHES- CEPOLIDAE Yellow-spotted Bandfish Acanthocepola abbreviata
Cepola abbreviata Valenciennes, 1835. Molucca Archipelago.
A small family of eel-like fishes with at least 4 genera and about 20 species. The head is short and rounded, and more goby-like in
general appearenge, with large eyes. Most species are reddish in colour and live in muddy substrates in holes. They rise vertically Indonesia, possibly widespread, but many very similar species.
out of their holes to feed on plankton drifting over in currents. Many species are undescribed and the family is in need of a revision. Recognised by the slender body, red colour and yellow spots or bars
on sides. Muddy habitats, usually in large aggregations, each indi-
vidual with its own borrow. Rises high above the substrate in
schools to feed when plankton drifts over, typically in a vertical pos-
Red Bandfish Cepola schlegelii
ture as shown in C. They reverse down and back into their borrow.
Cepola schlegeli Bleeker, 1854. Japan.
Length to 20 cm.
Indonesia, possibly widespread. Muddy habitats, usually occurs in small groups.
Rises vertically from its borrow to feed on plankton drifting over. The genus
Acanthocephalus usually has several small spines on the edged of its gill cover.
Length to 25 cm.

A B
C. schlegelii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 15 cm. C. schlegelii. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm.
A B

Red-spotted Bandfish
Acanthocepola krusensternii
Cepola krusensternii Temminck & Schlegel, 1845.
Japan.

West Pacific, Japan to Indonesia. Lives on muddy

substrates, deep as well as in shallow protected estu-
aries. Identified by the spaced series of pupil-sized red
spots along upper sides. Length to 40 cm.

C
A. krusensternii. Gilimanus, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 25 cm. A. abbreviata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm.

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 Black-spot Bandfish Acanthocepola limbata CONVICT BLENNIES- PHOLIDICHTHYIDAE
Cepola limbata Valenciennes, 18356. Japan.
A small family restricted to the West Pacific, one widespread and the other species in northern Australia. They have a goby like head,
West Pacific, possibly widespread, but several similar species with eel-like tail and catfish appearance which they are often mistaken for. For this reason they are here placed after the catfish family.
red or black spot in dorsal fin. Adults pair and feed in loose groups.
Juveniles gather in small groups on deep sand slopes, usually in cur-
rent-prone areas. Length reported to 50 cm. Convict Blenny Pholidichthys leucotaenia
Pholidichthys leucotaenia Bleeker, 1856. Buru Isl, Moluccen.

Widespread West Pacific from Indonesia to southern Japan.

Coastal reefs to outer reef habitats. Sometimes juveniles form
massive schools that swim in tight formation to look like a
single large body. Adults live secretively in reefs and have a
barred or spotted colour pattern. Length to 15 cm.

A
P. leucotaenia. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length ~45 mm.

A B
A. limbata. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 17 m. Length 30 cm. Michimiko Yamada. B C
A. limbata. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 30 m. Juveniles. Akira OGAWA.
P. leucotaenia. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Length 40 mm. P. leucotaenia. Sangihe Islands. Length ~35 mm.

Spiny Bandfish Acanthocepola sp 1 Yellow Bandfish Acanthocepola sp 2

Indonesia. Coastal mud habitat at moderate depths. Greyish brown in Undetermined species, found in sheltered coastal bay. Very muddy
colour and eyes red. Seen singly or in pairs. A shy species, usually dives habitat, near mangroves. Length about 15 cm
in the holes when approached too quickly. Largest observed about 15 cm.

D
A. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. L. 12 cm. A. sp 2. Eastern Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. L. 15 cm. P. leucotaenia. Sangihe Islands. Depth 6 m. Length ~35 mm.

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 CLINGFISHES - GOBIESOCIDAE Two-stripe Featherstar Clingfish
Discotrema lineata
A large family of small fishes with about 35 genera and over 100 species. Many species several new genera were only recently dis- Lepadichthys lineatus Briggs, 1966. Eilat, Red Sea.
covered and more can be expected. Most species live in subtropical waters and associate with seagrasses or weeds where they are
highly camouflaged. There are relativily few tropical species, and some of these have adapted into associations with invertebrates such Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Typically found
as featherstars that are distinctly marked. They feed on tiny invertebrates, including zooplankton. Eggs are demersal and usually laid amongst the arms of featherstars, but often swim about
on rock, coral rubble or algae, at the base of their host which are guarded by the male or both parents, depending on the species. openly when feeding or simply moving about where there
are lots of host featherstars (crinoids). Coastal protected
bays and reef crests in current-prone areas that are the
habitat for the featherstars. The clingfish varies in colour to
Long-snout Clingfish Diademichthys lineatus
suit host and appears to favour dark coloured featherstars.
Crepidogaster lineatum Sauvage, 1883. New Caledonia. The red-coloured crinoids actually look black at depths over
10 m. The clingfish is recognised by the double stripe along
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific but geographical vari- the sides, versus only on in the other crinoid-clingfish
ations may represent separate species. Protected coastal species. Length to 45 mm.
reefs and drop-offs with rich invertebrate growth from shal-
low reef flats to about 30 m depth. Swims openly near
crevices with corals, sponges or long-spined urchins.
Length to 50 mm

A
D. lineata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length ~30 mm
A
D. lineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~50 mm.
B
D. lineata. Maumere, Flores. D. 6 m. L. ~30 mm

B C
D. lineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~50 mm. D. lineatus Maumere, Flores. D. 6 m. L. ~35 mm.

Urchin Clingfish Diademichthys sp

Known from Flores to Bali and north to Mabul, Borneo, but
probably throughout tropical West Pacific. Typically found
amongst the spines of long-spined urchins. Coastal protect-
ed bays. Length to 30 mm.

A B C D
D. sp. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length ~30 mm. D. lineata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length ~45 mm.

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 Three-stripe Featherstar Clingfish Discotrema crinophila ANGLERFISHES - ANTENNARIDAE
Discotrema crinophila Briggs, 1976. Fiji.
This family is the shallow water member of a highly specialised group of fishes that uses a lure to capture prey. There are 12 gen-
Widespread tropical West Pacific, from Australia and central Pacific to Japan. era with at least 41 species worldwide. The lure is a modified first dorsal fin spine that comprises two parts, the esca or bait, that
Protected coastal reefs from shallow reef flats to about 20 m depth along slopes represents the food-source of the species they target, and the illicium or rod that moves the esca about to make it look like a swim-
and walls. Secretive in variously coloured featherstars. Length to 50 mm.
ming and easy prey. The anglerfishes themselves are very cryptic and mimic there surroundings. Some juveniles mimic nudi-
branchs. They reproduce with large numbers of eggs that are either in floating mucus rafts or demersal and guarded by the female.

Sargassum Anglerfish Histrio histrio

Lophius histrio Linnaeus, 1758. No particular locality.

Known from all tropical seas, except the east Pacific. Has
adapted to a pelagic life in the loose sargassum weeds that
grew in coastal waters and were ripped from the reefs by
rough seas. They feeds on fishes and shrimps that seek
A B refuge in the floating weeds. Eggs are produced in a mucus
D. crinophila. Maumere, Flores. Depth 7 m. Length ~30 mm. like mass. When threatened from below, this fish will jump
out of the water on top of the weed to escape predators. It
will lay there for a considerable length of time before jump-
ing back. Some other fish living in the weed, such as
pipehorses, will do this also. Length to about 13 cm.

C D
D. crinophila. Tulamben, Bali. D. 8 m. L. ~40 mm. D. crinophila. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length ~45 mm.
B
One-stripe Featherstar Clingfish Discotrema sp H. histrio. Maumere, Flores. Surface waters below sargassum raft. Length 13 cm.
Known from the Great Barrier Reef and Indonesia, but probably widespread. It
is commonly confused with the above species. On reef crests and along outer A
reef walls. Secretive in yellow and orange featherstars. Length to 60 mm. H. histrio. Maumere, Flores. Length 45 mm.

A B C D
D. sp. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length ~50 mm. H. histrio. Maumere, Flores. Length 10 cm. H. histrio. Maumere, Flores. Surface waters below sargassum raft. Length 13 cm.

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 Pygmy Anglerfish Brackish Water Anglerfish
Antennarius tuberosus Antennarius biocellatus
Chironectes tuberosus Cuvier, 1817. Chironectes biocellatus Cuvier, 1817.
Mauritius. Locallaty unknown.
Indo-West Pacific. Secretive on shallow West Pacific from Taiwan to Indonesia
coastal reefs. Amongst rocky boulders or and Solomon Islands. Mainly in estuar-
under large coral rubble pieces. Length to ies and in depths less than 10 m. Length
75 mm. to 14 cm.

A B
A. biocellatus. A Tulamben, juvenile. B Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 11 cm. Miki Tonozuka.
A B
A. tuberosus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length ~50 mm. B close-up on bait. Miki TONOZUKA.

C D
C D E
A. biocellatus. A Tulamben, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 25 mm. B Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 80 mm.
A. tuberosus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 2-3 m. A length ~50 mm. Miki TONOZUKA. B ~50 mm. C ~ 30 mm. Akira OGAWA.

Three-spot Anglerfish Antennarius randalli Dorei Anglerfish Antennarius dorehensis

Antennarius randalli Allen, 1970. Easter island. Antennarius dorehensis Bleeker, 1859. Doreh, New Guinea.

Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Known from few locations throughout West Pacific from Taiwan to Indonesia and Solomon Islands. Mainly in
Indo-Pacific. Recognised by three white spots. Length to 8 cm. estuaries and in depths less than 10 m. Length to 14 cm.

E
A. randalli. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 1 m. Length 7 cm. A. dorehensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1 m. Length 7 cm. A. biocellatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 80 & 90 mm.

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 Giant Anglerfish
Antennarius commersoni
Lophius commerson
Latreille, 1798. Mauritius.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Sheltered

coastal habitats in sponge areas. Often on jetty
pylons. Hightly variable in colour, matching
the colour of the sponges in the habitat. One of
the largest species, to 30 cm long.

A B
A. commersoni. Lembeh Strait. Depth 2 m. Length ~20 cm. A. commersoni. Tulamben, Bali. Showing bait.

D
A. commersoni. Lembeh Strait. Depth 7 m. Length ~24 cm.

Pink Anglerfish Antennarius rosaceus Spiny-head Anglerfish Nudiantennarius subteres

Antennarius rosaceus Smith & Radcliffe, 1912. Philippines. Antennarius subteres Smith & Radcliffe, 1912. Philippines.

Indo-Pacific. Little known species, mainly Indonesia and Philippines. Only known from Indonesia and Philippines. Muddy habitats, reported
Lives at moderate depths in sponge zones. Length to 50 mm. to 90 m depth. Length to 75 mm.

C
A. commersoni. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length ~25 cm. A. rosaceus? Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 50 mm. N. subteres. Maumere, Flores. Depth 4 m. Length 40 mm.

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 Clown Anglerfish Antennarius maculatus Painted Anglerfish Antennarius pictus
Chironectes maculatus Desjardins, 1840. Mauritius. Lophius pictus Shaw, 1794. Tahiti.

Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Sheltered reefs. Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Various habitats.
Adults with sponges. Juveniles openly on reefs, looking Adults usually with sponges. Juveniles openly on sand or
like nudibranchs. Variable in colour, but usually has red reef, mimicking small sponges or nudibranchs. One of the
or orange margins on all fins and the first band across most variable species that comes in almost any colour,
the body diverts to the posterior edge of the eye. This depending on habitat and area. In some regions it has a
distinguishes it from Antennarius pictus that occasion- similar pattern to Antennarius maculatus, but the first
ally has a simmilar pattern in Japan or western Indian body band doesn’t divert towards the ey like it does in A.
Ocean. Length to about 15 cm. maculatus. Has long ilicium and esca reaches second dor-
sal spine, shown as white or pink in photographs. Length
to about 16 cm.

A
A. maculatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length ~12 cm.

A
A. pictus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Length ~16 cm.

C
A. maculatus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 3 m. Length ~12 mm.

B
A. pictus. Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~25 mm.

D B
A. maculatus. Rinca, Komodo. Depth 13 m. Length 15 cm. Miki Tonozuka. A. maculatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length ~30 mm.
C
Rodless Anglerfish A. pictus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Length ~12 cm.
Histiophryne cryptacantha
Antennarius cryptacanthus
Weber, 1913. Off Timor.

Widespread West Pacific. Sheltered

reefs. Adults with sponges or ascid-
ians. Females cares for eggs, carry- D
ing them in a bunch between the A. pictus. Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~45 mm.
pectoral fin and a curled tail. Length
to about 9 cm.

E F
H. cryptacantha. Raja Amput, eastern Indonesia. Depth 10 m. Length 9 cm. Roger Steene. A. pictus. Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~35 mm. A. pictus. Sanur Lagoon, Bali. Depth 1 m. Length ~75 mm.

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 Freckled Anglerfish Antennarius coccineus Spot-fin Anglerfish Antennarius nummifer
Chironectes coccineus Cuvier, 1831. Mauritius. Chironectes nummifer Cuvier, 1817. No locality.
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Coastal reefs, secre- Widespread tropical Indo-Pacific. Sheltered coastal bays and
tive amongst rocks and sponges. Highly variable in colour estuaries, usually with sponges, matching their colours per-
from yellow, brown and pink to red and grey with spotted or fectly. Colours range from white and grey to yellow and red.
blotched patterns. Adults usually with pale round blotch Eyes usually with bands radiating from its pupil. Length to
behind head and above pectoral fin base. Bait is small but 10 cm
distinctly white as shown in front of the mouth in photos C
& D. Length to 12 cm. B Bait, shown above the head, that mimics shrimp
Also known as Scarlet Anglerfish.

A
A. coccineus. Mabul, Borneo, Malaysia. Depth 8 m. Length ~10 cm. A
A. nummifer. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~8 cm.

C
A. coccineus. Tulamben, Bali. D. 10 m. L. ~50 mm.

B
A. nummifer. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 8 m. L. ~8 cm.

C
B D A. nummifer. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length ~6 & 8 cm.
A. coccineus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length ~85 mm. Akira OGAWA. A. coccineus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length ~70 mm.

E F D E
A. coccineus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length ~85 mm. Akira OGAWA. A. coccineus. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. ~30 mm. A. nummifer. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 8 m. L. ~8 cm. A. nummifer. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length ~10 cm.

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 Shaggy Anglerfish Antennarius hispidus
Lophius hispidus Bloch & Schneider, 1801. India.

Widespread tropical Indo-Pacific. Found in still

muddy habitats that are either deep off-shore, or rel-
atively shallow in greatly protected estuaries.
Reported to 90 m depth. Colour variable from near
white to orange, yellow or brown, with dark spots
that elongate to various degrees, streaks or stripes.
Ilicium longer than next dorsal fin ray with small
rounded to elongate esca. Length to 20 cm.

B C
A B
A. hispidus. Muddy Bay, south of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm. A. hispidus. Flores. Depth 4 m. Length 70 mm.

C
A. hispidus. Muddy Bay, south of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 18 cm.

Pom-pom Anglerfish
Antennarius cf hispidus
undetermined species.

This species was identified as Antennarius hispidus,

but now seems to be a different species and
appears to be undescribed. It has a large fluffy esca
that is on a relatively short illicium. These features
of the luring apparatus differ considerably the true
A. hispidus, and the two species differ greatly in
maximum size. The range of the Pom-pom
Anglefish is not known because of the confusion
with similar species. It occurs in estuaries of Bali in
shallow muddy habitats. It grows quite large and
reaches at least 30 cm.

A D
A. cf hispidus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length ~30 cm. A. cf hispidus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length ~30 cm.

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 Striped Anglerfish Antennarius striatus WALKING BATFISHES - OGCOCEPHALIDAE
Lophius striatus Shaw, 1794. Tahiti.
This family of unusual fishes that walk on the bottom with their ventral and pectoral fins. There are nine genera and about 60 species
Indo-West Pacific and Atlantic. Some geo-
graphical variations between Atlantic and known. Their head and body is greatly flattened although, juveniles are more rounded and jelly like. Adults are often prickly or cov-
Pacific, and Japanese populations are slightly ered with short filaments. Like there relatives, the anglerfishes, they have an illicium and esca to attract prey. Most species live in
different. Sporadic distribution and usually deep water, often several hundreds of metres, and they are rarely encountered by divers. Few species enter large muddy estuaries
common where found. Mainly found in large that have similar benthic habitats to the still deep-water habitas. They are also known as ‘pancake fishes’ or ‘seabats. One species
open estuaries with sponges. Length usually to was recently discovered in Bali’s ‘secret bay’.
about 20 cm, but occasionally larger in sub-
tropical zones. Length to 25 cm.
Yellow-footed Walking Batfish
Bait is worm-like. D in rolled-up, rest mode. E Halieutaea indica
unfolded. Halieutaea indica Annandale & Jenkins, 1910.
Bay of Bengal, India.

Known from the northen Indian Ocean from India to

southern Indonesia. Occurs on muddy substrates to
about 100 m depth. Identified by the mostly yellow
pectorals with a white band across. Length to 15 cm.
A
A. striatus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Roger C. STEENE.

A
H. indica. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 12 cm.

B C
A. striatus. B Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Roger C. STEENE. C Gilimanuk, Bali. Close-up of rested bait. Michimiko Yamada.
B
C H. indica. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 12 cm.

D E D E
A. striatus. D Sydney Harbour. Depth 15 m. Length ~20 cm. E Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 24 cm. H. indica. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 12 cm. C–E the same individual changing colour and extending luring device. Akira Ogawa.

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 GARFISHES - HEMIRAMPHIDAE HARDYHEADS - ATHERINIDAE
A primarily tropical family with about 12 genera and over 80 species. Surface fishes in coastal waters, some entering freshwater. A very large family of small silvery fishes. About 29 genera and 150 species occur worldwide. Mainly coastal fishes in tropical and temperate
Mostly silvery fishes, recognised by the greatly produced lower jaw. Also known as halfbeaks. seas, often in estuaries and sheltered lagoons, some entering freshwater. They feed on plankton and are a food source for pelagic fishes.

Estuary Garfish Zenarchopterus gilli Short Garfish Zenarchopterus rasori Silver Hardyhead Hypoatherina barnesi Robust Hardyhead Atherinomorus lacunosus
Zenarchopterus gilli Smith, 1945. Replacement name for Hemiramphus rasori Popta, 1912. Sunda Is., Indonesia. Hypoatherina barnesi Schultz, 1953. Marshall Is. Atherina lacunosa Forster, 1801. New Caledonia.
Hemirhamphus brevirostris Günther, 1866, preoccupied. East Indies.
Known from Indonesia and northern Australia. Harbours and mangrove Tropical Indo-West Pacific. Sheltered bays and lagoons. To 10 cm. Indo-West Pacific. Schools along beaches and lagoons. To 25 cm.
Indo-West Pacific. Mangrove areas, entering streams. To 17 cm. areas. Length to 18 cm.

Z. gilli. Maumere, Flores. Length 12 cm. Z. rasori. Derawan, Kalimantan. Length 10 cm.

Dussumier’s Garfish Hyporhamphus dussumieri Barred Garfish Hemiramphus far

Hemiramphus dussumieri Valenciennes, 1839. Malabar, India. Esox marginatus var far Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Tropical Indo-West Pacific. Schools in clear coastal waters and lagoons. Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal waters, usually over sand flats.
Length to 25 cm. Length to 35 cm. H. barnesi. Maumere, Flores. Length 8 cm. A. lacunosus. Pulau Putri, Java. Length 10 cm.

ANCHOVIES - ENGRAULIDAE
A large family of small silvery fishes. About 16 genera and 140 species occur worldwide. Most are tropical and form large schools, often
entering estuaries. They are recognised by the protruding blunt snout. They feed on plankton and are a food source for pelagic fishes.

Pygmy Anchovy Stolephorus heterolobus Little Priest Thryssa baelama

H. dussumieri. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 1 m. Length 20 cm. H. far. Sanur Lagoong, Bali. Length 15 cm.
Engraulis heteroloba Rüppell, 1837. Red Sea Clupea baelama Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Tropical Indo-West Pacific. Coastal bays. Indo-West Pacific. Coastal waters, near mangroves.
LONGTOMS - BELONIDAE Length to 12 cm. Length to 15 cm.
A family of surface fishes with about 10 genera and 30 species. Jaws are extremely elongated and have numerous needle-like teeth.
Also known as needle fishes. They hunt either solitary or in small schools for small pelagic fishes.

Schooling Longtom Platybelone argalus Crocodile Longtom Tylosurus crocodilus

Belona argalus Lesueur, 1821. West Indies. Belona crocodila Peron & Lesueur, 1821. Mauritius.
Widespread Indo-Pacific. Schools in sheltered parts of the reef. Indo-Pacific. Large species, usually seen solitary or in pairs.
Length to 45 cm. Length to 1.3 m.

P. argalus. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 1 m. Length 30 cm. T. crocodilus. Tulamben, Bali. Length 60 cm. E. heteroloba. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 1 m. Length 10 cm. T. baelama. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm.

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 HERRINGS - CLUPEIDAE BONEFISHES - ALBULIDAE
A large family of mostly small and silvery fishes with about 65 genera and 180 species occurring worldwide. Some species form A small family with 3 genera. The genus Albula has about 5 species that are globally distributed in tropical seas. A sought after gamefish.
enormous schools and are an important food source for tunas. Some of the temperate species grow to moderately large size and
are commercially fished.
Bonefish Albula neoguinaica
Albula neoguinaica Valenciennes, 1847. Irian Jaya.
Silver Sardine Sardinella lemuru Gold-spot Herring Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus
Sardinella lemuru Bleeker, 1853. Java. Clupea quadrimaculata Rüppell, 1837. Red Sea. Tropical Indo-West Pacific. Coastal waters, usually in
schools over sandflats near beaches that are exposed
Tropical Indo-West Pacific. Sheltered bays and lagoons. To 23 cm. Indo-West Pacific. Schools in bays and lagoons. To 25 cm. at low tides to feed on sand-dwelling invertebrates.
Length to 1 m.

A
A. neoguinaica. Okinawa, Japan. Length 50 cm.

S. lemuru. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm. H. quadrimaculatus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm.

MILKFISHES - CHANIDAE
A single-species family. Estuarine larval stages are often collected for aquaculture and in many areas an important food source.

Milkfish Chanos chanos

Mugil chanos Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. B
A. neoguinaica. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm. Alex STEFFE.
Indo-West Pacific. Coastal to outer reefs in open water. Adults some-
times seen swimming fast along reefs and large individuals have a
shark-like appearance when they are come in. Usually in small TARPONS - MEGALOPIDAE
groups. Juveniles school in estuaries. Length to 1.8 m.
A single-genus family with 2 species, one Indo-Pacific, one Atlantic. Coastal fishes. Popular angling species. Atlantic species
reaches 2 m in length. Larval stages are highly compressed, transparent like those of eels and bonefish, and called leptocephalus.

Tarpon Megalops cyprinoides

Clupea cyprinoides Broussonet, 1782. Tropical Seas.

Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Coastal and estuarine

A species. Juveniles commonly enter freshwater.
C. chanos. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 1 m. Length to 1 m.

B C A B
C. chanos. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 1 m. C. chanos. Pulau Putri, Java. Surface. Length 30 cm. M. cyprinoides. Sydney Aquarium. Length 15 cm. M. cyprinoides. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 1 m. Length 35 cm.

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 LIZARDFISHES - SYNODONTIDAE Tail-blotch Lizardfish Synodus jaculum
Synodus jaculum Russell & Cressey, 1979. GBR,
A primarily tropical family with 5 genera and about 50 species. Some genera are restricted to very deep water, to 1000 m, but 3 are Australia.
commonly seen in diveable depths. They are predators that lay in ambush near reefs and some bury partly to just eyes exposed in Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Large black
the sand. Fins are entirely soft-rayed and the ventrals have 9 rays, which is more than most fishes. blotch on peduncle. Coastal reefs to about 30 m depth.
Usually on rubble patches and sometimes resting on
corals. Length to 20 cm.
Painted Lizardfish Trachinocephalus myops
Salmo myops Forster, 1801. St. Helena.

Widespread in all tropical seas. Sheltered to semi-

exposed coastal bays and estuaries. Usually buries
itself in the sand or mud with just eyes exposed. When
disturbed, it may swim a short distance but quickly
buries itself again. Courting pairs are sometimes seen
as shown in photograph B. Length to 25 cm

A A B
T. myops. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. S. jaculum. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 10 cm. S. jaculum. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm.

Variegated Lizardfish Synodus variegatus

Salmo variegatus Lacepède, 1803. Mauritius.

Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Adults variable

from grey to red. Elongated blotches form mid-lateral
stripe. Coastal to outer reefs, on corals or sand. Length
to 24 cm.

A B
S. variegatus. Tulamben, Bali. D. 20 m. L. 14 cm. S. variegatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 4 m. Length 18 cm.

Grey-streak Lizardfish Synodus dermatogenys

B
T. myops. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm. Synodus dermatogenys Fowler, 1912. Hawaiian I.

Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Grey stripe, just

Indian Lizardfish Synodus indicus above mid-lateral blotches. Coastal reefs and sand flats
Saurus indicus Day, 1873. Madras, India. to about 30 m depth. Often buries itself in the sand.
Length to 22 cm.
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Current-prone
sand slopes such as in channels into lagoons, usually
in depths of 20+ m. Usually buries itself in the sand.
Lenth to 33 cm.

A B
S. indicus. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 18 m. Length 15 cm. S. dermatogenys. Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 12 cm. S. dermatogenys. Maumere, Flores. Depth 7 m. Length 22 cm.

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 Red-marbled Lizardfish Blotched Grinner Saurida nebulosa Giant Grinner Saurida sp 1
Synodus rubromarmoratus
Saurida nebulosa Valenciennes, 1850. Mauritius. Appears to be undescribed.
Synodus rubromarmoratus
Russell & Cressey, 1979. GBR, Australia. Widespread Indo-Pacific. A common species in coastal estuaries West Pacific, Indonesia to Japan. Muddy substrate, usually deep water, or
and reef slopes, usually silty habitat. Recognised by the large dark protected estuaries. Usually buried in the mud with upper head exposed.
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Bright red blotches below dorsal fins. Length to 25 cm. Length to 65 cm, probably is the largest grinner.
borad saddles over the back. Coastal reefs to outer
reefs, usually on deep slopes in depths over 20 m.
Length to 20 cm.

A B
S. rubromarmoratus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 20 cm. S. rubromarmoratus. Bali. D. 25 m. L. 15 cm. S. nebulosa. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm. S. sp 1. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm.

Five-band Lizardfish Synodus ulae Lagoon Lizardfish Synodus macrops Long Grinner Saurida elongata Slender Grinner Saurida gracilis
Synodus ulae Schultz, 1953. Hawaiian Islands. Synodus macrops Russell & Cressey, 1979. GBR, Australia. Aulopus elongatus Temminck & Schlegel, 1846. Japan. Saurus gracilis Quoy & Gaimard, 1824. Mauritius.

Widespread Indo-Pacific. Fine barring on head. Body bands darken Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Pale with few broad bands. Indo-Pacific. Lagoon and fine-sand habitats. A pale species with Indo-Pacific. Coastal slopes, harbours and estuaries. Muddy habitat. A
towards the tail. Coastal reef flats. Length to 25 cm. Coastal sand flats and lagoons to deep off-shore. Length to 18 cm. few dark markings and saddle-like spots below dorsal fin bases. dusky-grey species with numerous dark spots and several dark saddles
Length to 25 cm. below dorsal fin bases and behind head. Length to 28 cm.

S. ulae. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm. S. macrops. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm.

Tail-bar Lizardfish Synodus tectus Arched Lizardfish Synodus cf hoshinosus S. elongata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm. S. gracilis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.

Synodus tectus Cressey, 1981. Philippines. Synodus hoshinosus Tanaka, 1917. Japan.
Large-scale Grinner
Indo-Pacific. Slender with textile-like pattern. Muddy estuaries and deep Indo-Pacific. Appears to be different from the Japanese Synodus hoshi-
soft bottom habitat. Length to 22 cm. nosus. Protected outer reef sand habitats, typically sits on substrate
Saurida undosquamis
with arched back, raising the head high. Length to 20 cm. Saurus undosquamis
Richardson, 1848.
North-Western Australia.

Widespread Indo-Pacific, ranging to

subtropical zones. Coastal bays to deep
off-shore. Sand and mud habitat.
Length to 25 cm.

S. tectus. Gilimanuk. Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 16 cm. S. cf hoshinosus. Mabul, Borneo. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm. S. undosquamis. Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm.

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 LANTERNFISHES - MYCTOPHIDAE FLASHLIGHTFISHES - ANOMALOPIDAE
A small family with 2 genera and 5 species that possess large light-organs below the eye. The light produced is very bright and used
A large family of benthopelagic fishes with about 32 genera and 250 species. Most live in depths between 400-1000 m, but they
to find and recognise plankton prey. The light can also be used for signalling to each other by drawing a membrane over the organ
migrate vertically to feed on zooplankton. At night some of these fishes can be found in surface waters. They features many small
that totally blocks the light. This is also used to avoid detection by predators.
light-organs that are mostly vertrally placed. The intensity of the lights is contralled and matches the available light that maybe pro-
duced from the night sky, so they don’t have a shadow that may attract predators.

Brooch Lanternfish Two-fin Flashlightfish Anomalops katoptron

Benthosema fibulatum Heterophthalmus katoptron Bleeker, 1856. Manado, Sulawesi.
Myctophum fibulatum
Tropical West Pacific. Hidden deep in reefs with long caves and crevices during
Gilbert & Cramer, 1897. Hawaiian Is.
the day, along walls and slopes in current prone areas. Length to 25 cm.
Tropical West Pacific. Occasionally seen during
dark nights on slopes that are near very deep
water. Attracted by light like moths, becoming dis-
orientated and darting frantically in all directions.
On the occasion when the photographs were
taken, numerous individuals swam into the light
and several specimens were collected by holding
a plastic bag in front so they could be identified.
A Length to 80 mm.
B. fibulatum. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length ~45 mm.

A
A. katoptron. Sangihe Islands. Depth 15 m. Length 20 mm.

B
B. fibulatum. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length ~45 mm. Ventral view.

C B
B. fibulatum. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length ~45 mm. A. katoptron. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length ~15 cm.

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 One-fin Flashlightfish SQUIRREL- & SOLDIERFISHES - HOLOCENTRIDAE
Photoblepharon palpebratus
Sparus palpebratus Boddaert, 1781. Ambon. A large family divided into 2 subfamilies, HOLOCENTRINAE, the squirrelfishes, with 3 genera and over 30 species, and
MYRIPRISTINAE, the soldierfishes, with 5 genera and about 70 species worldwide. Squirrelfishes feature a sabre-like preopercle
Indo-West Pacific. Coastal reefs with deep drop-
spine that is venomous in some and have a more pointed snout compared to the soldierfishes. The latter has larger eyes. They are
offs. Usually feeds in large groups away from the
reefs at night. Well hidden in caves during the day
mostly nocturnal fishes that shelter in reefs during the day. Some form schools in caves along drop-offs, around bommies or in
and rarely seen. Usually observed at night in 10 to large staghorn coral formations in lagoon, and others maybe solitary and secretive, hiding deep in reefs or in small crevices. At night
30 m depth. Length to 11 cm. they venture over the open substrate or swim high above the bottom to feed on zooplankton, targetting shrimp and crab-larvae.

Yellow-striped Squirrelfish
Neoniphon aurolineatus
Holocentrum aurolineatum
A Liénard, 1839. Mauritius.

Indo-West Pacific. This species is not

often observed because of its depth
preference, rarely occurring in less than
40 m depth. Easily identified by the yel-
low lines that show at depth in natural
light. Clear outer reef habitats in cur-
rent-prone areas. Length to 22 cm.

A
B N. aurolineatus Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.
C
P. palpebratus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 10 cm.

D B
P. palpebratus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 10 cm. Myripristes spp with Neoniphon aurolineatus below. Nusa Penida, Bali. Depth 40 m.

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 Silver Squirrelfish Red-face Squirrelfish Sargocentron violaceum
Neoniphon argenteus Holocentrum violaceum Bleeker, 1853. Ambon.
Holocentrum argenteum Valenciennes, 1831.
Widespread tropical Indo-Pacific. A solitary and secretive
New Guinea.
species, occasionally seen in small crevices in clear water habi-
Indo-West Pacific. Coastal bays and lagoons, tats from 3-30 m depth. Length to 25 cm.
often silty habitat. Forms loose schools scat-
tered over bommies or in staghorn coral
colonies. Length to 25 cm.

N. argenteus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 20 m. Length 18 cm.

Spot-fin Squirrelfish A B
Neoniphon sammara S. violaceum. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm. S. violaceum. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm.

Sciaena sammara Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

White-tail Squirrelfish Sargocentron caudimaculatum
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Most common- Holocentrus caudimaculatus Rüppell, 1838. Red Sea.
ly seen member of the genus, found from
coastal to outer reefs at various depths. Lenth Widespread tropical Indo-Pacific. Often in large schools in
to 24 cm. caves along drop-offs. Coastal to outer reef habitats. Identified
by the white saddle-like spot behing the dorsal fin and the pale
tail during the day. Length to 25 cm

A
N. sammara. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.

Mouth-fin Squirrelfish Neoniphon opercularis

Holocentrum operculare Valenciennes, 1831. Bismarck Archipelago.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Occurs mainly along deep outer reef walls in
caves, usually in depths of 20 m or more. It raises or flashes its distinctly
marker dorsal fin to startle possible predator. Against the normally dark
background of caves, the dorsal fin may appear as an well-toothed large
mouth. Largest species in genus, reaching 35 cm.

A B B
N. opercularis Menjangan Island, Bali. D. 20 m. L. 35 cm. N. opercularis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 35 cm. S. caudimaculatum. A Tulamben, Bali. Night. Depth 20 m. Length 24 cm. B Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 24 cm.

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 Pink Squirrelfish Crown Squirrelfish Sargocentron diadema
Sargocentron tiereoides Holocentrus diadema. Lacepède, 1802.
Holocentrum tiereoides Bleeker, 1853. Ambon. South Seas.

Indo-West Pacific. This species is not often Widespread tropical Indo-Pacific. Distinctive dorsal
observed because of its secretive nature, usually fin pattern. Coastal to outer reef habitats to about
out at night but stays close to reefs. This species 30 m depth. Length to 17 cm.
has red lines with pink interspaces, giving it a
pinkish look. A small species, length to 16 cm

A
S. tiereoides. Sangihe Islands. Depth 20 m. Length 16 cm. Night. B
S. diadema. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Night, C
under boat. Larval, 20 and postlarval ~35 mm. S. diadema. Sangihi Islands. Depth 20 m. Length 17 cm.

B D
S. tiereoides. Sangihe Islands. Depth 20 m. Length 16 cm. S. diadema. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 16 cm.

Samurai Squirrelfish Fine-lined Squirrelfish

Sargocentron ittodai Sargocentron microstoma
Holocentrus ittodai Jordan & Fowler, 1902. Holocentrum microstoma. Günther, 1859.
Okinawa, Japan. Ambon.

West Pacific. Whitish with red lines follow- Indo-West Pacific. Several broadened white inte-
ing scale rows, brightest below the spin- spaces between red lines. Shallow clear water reef
ous dorsal fin and fading towards the tail habitats. Length to 17 cm.
and over abdomen. Mainly clear outer reef
habitat. Length to 20 cm

A B
S. ittodai. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 16 cm. S. microstoma. Guam. Depth 6 m. L. 16 cm. S. microstoma. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 16 cm.

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 Blue-lined Squirrelfish Giant Squirrelfish
Sargocentron tiere Sargocentron spiniferum
Holocentrum tiere. Cuvier, 1829. Tahiti. Sciaena spinifera. Forsskål, 1775.
Red Sea
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific.
Exposed reef flats, in the back of crevices. Indo-West Pacific. Large red dorsal fin
Length to 30 cm. and several red blotches on the head.
Ventral, pectoral, anal and margin of cau-
dal fin yellow. Coastal to outer reef slopes
and drop-offs. Usually in small groups.
Largest squirrelfish, length to 45 cm.

A
S. tiere. Guam. Depth 10 m. Length 26 cm.

A
S. spiniferum. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm.

B
S. tiere. Guam. Depth 10 m. Length 26 cm.
B
S. spiniferum. Sangihe Islands. Depth 10 m. Length 40 cm.
Speckled Squirrelfish
Sargocentron punctatissimus Three-spot Squirrelfish Sargocentron melanospilos
Holocentrum punctatissimum. Cuvier, 1829. Holocentrum melanospilos. Bleeker, 1858. Ambon.
Caroline Island.
Indo-West Pacific. Large black blotch as base of soft dorsal
Indo-West Pacific. Secretive in corals. fin. Clear coastal habitats to outer reefs in a depth range
Shallow clear water reef habitats, often shal- from 6 to at least 50 m. Usually seen solitary, but sometimes
low exposed zones. Length to 20 cm. forms schools in deep water in oceanic locations. Length to
25 cm.

A B A B
S. punctatissimus. Sangihe Islands. Depth 20 m. Length 15 cm. Guam. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. S. melanospilos. Pulau Putri, Java, night. D. 6 m. L. 24 cm. S. melanospilos. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm.

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 Dark-striped Squirrelfish Tail-spot Squirrelfish
Sargocentron praslin Sargocentron cornutum
Perca praslin Lacepède, 1802. Holocentrum cornutum
Solomon Islands. Bleeker, 1853. Ceram and Ambon.

Indo-West Pacific. Striped dark and usually Indo-West Pacific. Stripes black to red above, with
dark blotches at the bases of soft dorsal, anal thin white interspaces. Black peduncular blotch and
and caudal fins. Coastal to outer reefs. additional blotches at soft dorsal and anal fin bases
Length to 27 cm. that vary greatly in size between individuals or habi-
tats. Large spine in anal fin blue. Secretive in corals
during the day. Length to 27 cm.

A
S. cornutum. Komodo. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.

S. praslin. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm.

Red-coat Squirrelfish
Sargocentron rubrum
Sciaena rubra. Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Indo-West Pacific. Coastal to outer reefs.

Occurs singly, in pairs and sometimes in
large aggregations sheltering in favourable
spots on reefs. Usually in areas subject to
strong currents. Length to 27 cm.

A
S. rubrum. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 25 cm.

B
S. cornutum. Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm.

Black-pit Squirrelfish
Sargocentron sp
Indo-West Pacific. Near-black
stripes along upper half of the body.
Shallow clear water reef habitats.
Undetermined species, similar to S.
praslin, but black spot at pectoral
fin base and none on peduncle.
Length to about 25 cm.

B
Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm. S. sp. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 24 cm.

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 Pale Soldierfish Myripristis hexagona Splendid Soldierfish
Lutjanus hexagonus Lacepède, 1802. Myripristis melanosticta
Myripristis melanostictus Bleeker, 1863. Ternate.
Indo-West Pacific, eastern Indonesian to Coral Sea.
Coastal reefs and deep lagoons with rich invertebrate Widespread Indo-Pacific. Body pearly white with red-
growth, usually in depths over 20 m. Looks whitish in margined scales along upper area. Face and median fins
deep water. Length to 25 cm. deep red, but looks almost black in natural light when in
deep water. Soft dorsal, anal and caudal fin with bright
white margins and black areas at the tips. Outer reefs and
oceanic locations. Usually seen in pairs in depths over 30
m, but occasionally schools in oceanic some locations.
Length to 25 cm.

A
M. hexagona. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 20 cm. A
M. melanosticta. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm.

B
M. hexagona. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 24 cm.

Violet Soldierfish Myripristis violacea

B C
Myripristis violaceus Bleeker, 1851. Banda. M. melanosticta. Derawan, Kalimantan. D. 20 m. L. 25 cm. M. melanosticta. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm.
Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific. Occurs on clear
coastal to outer reef habitats, usually in cave along
walls during the day. Body silvery. Body with a bluish
shine. A reddish bar behind head with black axil spot.
Length to 35 cm.

A B D
M. violacea. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm. B with unusual black blotches, may be parasitic. M. melanosticta. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 30 m. Length 25 cm.

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 Shadowfin Soldierfish Immaculate Soldierfish
Myripristis adusta Myripristis vittata
Myripristis adustus Bleeker, 1863. Ambon. Myripristis vittatus Valenciennes, 1831.
Mauritius.
Indo-Pacific. Large species, easily identified by
its distinctive colouration. Appears very pale at Widespread Indo-Pacific. Commonly along
depths, with broad black margins on the medi- outer-reef drop-offs in caves, often in
an fins. Mainly solitary or in pairs, along walls in small groups and sometimes forms large
caves or clear water lagoons. Length to 35 cm. schools. Individual are often swimming
upside down, even when mixed in schools
of non-inverted ones. Length to 25 cm.

M. adusta. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm.

Brick Soldierfish
Myripristis amaena
Neomyripristis amaenus Castelnau, 1873.
Torres Strait, Australia.. A
Widespread West Pacific, but mainly oceanic M. vittata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 25 cm.
locations along walls. Usually seen in small
aggregations in Indonesia,but forms large
schools in oceanic locations. Grey to red with
plain red median fins. Length to 24 cm.

M. amaena. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 24 cm.

Little Soldierfish
Myripristis trachyacron
Myripristis trachyacron Bleeker, 1863. Ambon.
B C
West-Pacific, known from Indonesia. Deep M. vittata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 40 m. Length 15 cm. M. vittata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm.
orange with white-tipped dorsal fin spines and
dusky caudal fin tips. Small rare species, but
easily mistaken for next species. Swims in small Grey Soldierfish
aggregations in current prone channels, at mod- Myripristis aulacodes
erate depths. Length to 20 cm. Myripristis aulacodes
Randall & Greenfield, 1996. Lombok.

Indo-Pacific. known from a single speci-

men from Lombok, 165 mm long. The
specimen in the photograph appears to be
this species. The length 20 cm.

M. trachyacron. Nusa Penida. Depth 30 m. Length 12 cm. M. aulacodes(?). Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.

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 Crimson Soldierfish Myripristis murdjan Epaulette Soldierfish
Myripristis murdjan Valenciennes, 1831. Myripristis kuntee
Mauritius. Myripristis kuntee Valenciennes, 1831.
Mauritius.
Indo-Pacific. Mainly coastal reefs in moderate depths.
Most commonly reported species, but many literature Indo-West Pacific. Clear coastal habitats to outer reefs.
records are based on other species. Length to 25 cm. Pinkish-red, silvery along abdomen. Median fins with
large red tips. A dusky bar hehind the head. Has small-
er scales than most other similar species and the high-
er number along the body is quite obvious. Usually in
small groups in caves. Length to 26 cm.

A
M. kuntee. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 25 cm.

A B
M. murdjan. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 24 cm. M. murdjan. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 15 cm.

Yellow-fin Soldierfish
Myripristis berndti
Myripristis berndti Jordan & Evermann,
1903. Hawaiian Islands.

Indo-Pacific. Mainly along walls in caves, often con-

gregating in groups of mixed species. Recognised by
yellow first dorsal fin and tall white centres on the
scales. Large species, length to 30 cm.
B C
M. kuntee. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm. M. kuntee. Sangihe Islands. Depth 10 m. Length 26 cm.

Blue-fin Soldierfish Myripristis sp 1

Undetermined species. Very large red eyes and red-
dish bar behind the head. Scales large and fins blue
A with broad red margins. Caudal fin tips broadly
M. berndti. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 25 cm. rounded. Length to about 16 cm.

A
M. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 15 cm.

B B C
M. berndti. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 15 m. Length 30 cm. M. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 15 cm. M. sp 1. Pemuteran, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 10 cm.

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 Big-eye Soldierfish Myripristis pralinia SEAHORSES & PIPEFISHES - SYNGNATHIDAE
Myripristis pralinius Cuvier, 1829. Bismarck Archipelago.
A large family with 55 genera and about 270 species that can be divided into 4 subfamilies, but best known are the 2 major groups,
Indo-Pacific. Scales small, ventral fins pale blue with licht blue leading mar- the seahorses and the pipefishes. They are amongst the strangest of all fishes with their stick-like shapes or the vertical posture of
gin. Black axil with well defined black mark above at eye level Shy species, the seahorses. In addition they have an unusual reproductive method in which the female takes the eggs to the male who incubates
usually seen at night on deep slopes and drop-offs. Length to 20 cm. the brood in or on the body, and becomes pregnant. Hatchlings may appear after several weeks and are well developed, some set-
tling on the bottom straight away, but some have pelagic stages. Food comprises small crustaceans that are sucked in whole. Several
species were only recently found in Indonesia and more are to be expected. Seahorses are measured in height, from top of head to
end of the tail in a straight line.
A
M. pralinia. Sangihe Islands. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm.
Estuary Seahorse Hippocampus kuda
Hippocampus kuda Bleeker, 1852. Singapore.

Sri Lanka to Java and possibly to Ryukyus, Japan. Drab brown to black,
often with long filaments on crown and snout. Sub-marginal black line in
dorsal fin. Females sometimes yellow with pupil-sized black spots on the
trunk. Males usually drab with numerous small black spots over the body.
Snout short in young, elongating with growth. Occurs in estuaries and har-
bours, entering brackish water. Adults in pairs. To 15 cm height.

B C
M. pralinia. Sangihe Islands. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm. M. pralinia. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm.

Big-eye Soldierfish Myripristis macrolepis

Myripristis macrolepis Bleeker, 1873. Several Indonesian localities.
Java, Nias, Ambon and Sulawesi.

Indonesia, mainly west of Wallace’s line, ranging to Ambon in the

east. Similar to Myripristes hexagona that has a more eastern distri-
bution in the Western Pacific. Very large red eyes, body pale and red-
dish bar behind the head. Scales large and median fins with broad
reddish tips, dorsal fin spine-tips bright red, forming a line when fin
relaxed. Caudal fin tips broadly rounded. Length to about 20 cm.
A B C D
H. kuda. A Singapore. Underwater World, Singapore. B Aquarium. H. kuda. From Bleeker’s Atlas. H. kuda. Male, aquarium.

Common Seahorse Hippocampus taeniopterus

Hippocampus taeniopterus Bleeker, 1852. Ambon.
A
Moluccen Seas to Sulawesi and Bali, and to north and north-eastern Australia. Females are sometimes yel-
M. macrolepis. Pulau Putri, Java. Night. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm.
low with several large dark spots on the trunk (H. melanospilos form). Males usually drab with striations
over the head and small black spots over the trunk. Usually found along margins of seagrass beds, rarely
deeper than 15 m. Adults occur in pairs. To 22 cm height.

B A B
M. macrolepis. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm. H. taeniopterus. South of Bitung, northern Sulawesi. Pair, about 14 cm in height. H. taeniopterus. PNG. Height 18 cm.

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 Moluccen Seahorse Hippocampus moluccensis Half-spined Seahorse
Hippocampus moluccensis Bleeker, 1852. Ambon. Hippocampus semispinosus
Hippocampus semispinosus
A common species in Ambon and eastern Sulawesi, possibly restricted to
Kuiter, 2001. Southern Indonesia.
Moluccen Sea. Similar to H. kuda, but coronet is more distinct. Referral
to H. spinosissimus by some authors is incorrect as this deep water Only known from Bali and the Timor Sea.
species (40-70 m) is more spiny. Snout thick and its length equal to dis- Morphology similar to H. moluccensis,
tance from eye to gill-opening. Males drab to ornamental red and pur- and it mainly differs in colouration and
plish when in soft corals, usually a white saddle on neck followed by 3 spine features, and the snout is usually
more until dorsal fin. Open sandy and muddy substrates from shallow longer when fully grown. Males dull
protected bays on soft-bottom slopes to at least 20 m depth. Occasionally yellowish brown with a series of dis-
found in pairs. Height to 16 cm. tinctive white blotches on the trunk.
Females yellow or cream to reddish
brown with broad saddle like banding
behind the head and near dorsal fin.
Often with algae growth on the spiny
ridges. Shallow coastal habitats, from
near mangroves to deeper muddy
channels, or deep offshore where A
known from trawls. Height to 18 cm. H. semispinosus. Female, height 10 cm. Gilimanuk, Bali. Miki TONOZUKA.

A
H. moluccensis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Male, height 15 cm. B
H. semispinosus. Female, height 8 cm. Gilimanuk, Bali. Alex STEFFE.

C
H. moluccensis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. B Juvenile, height 4 cm,
C Female, height 15 cm. Both, Roger C. STEENE.

D C D E
H. moluccensis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Male, height 15 cm. H. semispinosus. C Male, height 12 cm. D Female, height 12 cm. Both Gilimanuk. E large female, Tulamben, depth 20 m. All Bali.

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 Thorny Seahorse Hippocampus histrix Zebra-snout Seahorse
Hippocampus histrix Kaup. 1856. Japan. Hippocampus barbouri
West Pacific, southern Japan to Coral Sea and northern Hippocampus barbouri
Australia. Reports from elsewhere need to be verified Jordan & Richardson, 1908.
as most spiny species were going under the name H. Philippines.
histrix. Primarily lives at moderate depths of about 15 Only known from Philippines and northern
m or deeper, on soft bottom with soft corals and Indonesia, but may occur in adjacent waters of
sponges, but occasionally found inhabiting shallower Japan. Recognised by the spiny coronet,
algae-rubble reef zones in about 10 m depth. Highly striped snout, double cheek-spines and thick
variable in colour from bright yellow to red or green to spine in front of eyes on the snout. Unlike
match surroundings. Red colours are camouflage in most seahorses, this species is often found
deep water where the colour is neutralised to grey. A clinging to hard corals and doesn’t seem to be
distinct species with its spiny appearance and long worried about stingers. Known depth range 6-
snout, latter appears very long in juveniles and may 10 m. Height to 15 cm.
elongate in large males. The sparse white barring on
the snout, as shown in the photographs, is diagnostic.
A Height to about 15 cm. A
H. histrix. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Height 8 cm.

B C
H. barbouri. A-B Females, aquarium, from Philippines. H. barbouri. Philippines. Male, height ~14 cm. R.C. STEENE.

Tiger-tail Seahorse Hippocampus comes

Hippocampus comes Cantor, 1850. Pinang, Malaysia.
West Pacific, primarily Andaman Sea, ranging to Singapore and probably southern
China Seas. A distinctive species in colour in which large adults are often bright yel-
low. Males often black with yellow bands on the tail, especially showing towards the
B C D tip. It has double cheek spines that are clearly visible in A. This species is mainly
H. histrix. B female, Mabul, Malaysia. C female, D male. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Indonesia. Roger C. STEENE. found in pairs on reefs in rich soft coral areas and usually in depths over 20 m. They
are well camouflaged and usually seen at night by divers as the seahorses are sleep-
Flores Seahorse Hippocampus polytaenia ing higher above the substrate for safety. Height to 16 cm.
Hippocampus polytaenia Bleeker, 1852.
Flores, Indonesia.
Appears to be restricted to Flores Seas, but probably
ranges to the Moluccen region. At some stage it was
thought to be a juvenile of H. kuda but it is more spiny
and different in shape, also H. kuda was not found in
Maumere Bay and probably doesn’t occur there. This
fits the distribution pattern of many other Indonesian
fishes. H. polytaenia is mainly found inshore, on shal-
low reef flats in sargassum weeds and in silty habitats,
sometimes in open substrates with sparse vegetation.
Yellow with pinkish banding to drab grey or black. To
about 5 m depth. Probably a small species, known
height to 9 cm.

A B
H. polytaenia. Flores, Indonesia. Height 8 cm. H. comes. Andaman Sea. Female yellow, male black. Mark STRICKLAND. H. comes. Bintan, Indonesia. Yellow male. Clay BRYCE.

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 Smooth Seahorse
Hippocampus kampylotrachelos
Hippocampus kampylotrachelos
Bleeker, 1854.
Priaman, Sumatra, Indonesia.
Only known from Sumatra and Java, ranging
to west Bali, but one specimen was found on
land amongst birds nesting on Ashmore Reef,
off Western Australia Slender species without
any crown formation on top of the head.
Dusky brown with fine pale spotting over the
head and back, and dorsal fin with thin dark
stripes, one along centre and another near its
margin. Shallow coastal waters, mainly in
muddy estuaries and near mangroves, tolerat-
ing brackish waters. Height to at least 22 cm.

H. kampylotrachelos. Depth 4 m. Male, height 22 cm. Gilimanuk, Bali, Indonesia. Akira OGAWA.

Pygmy Seahorse D E
Hippocampus bargibanti H. bargibanti. Maturing male, showing body lines emerging and H. bargibanti. Young male, showing moderate
wart-like parts darkening. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Tony WU. wart-like development. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi.
Hippocampus bargibanti Whitley, 1970.
New Caledonia.
West Pacific, Coral Sea, Australia, to southern
Japan and ranging into Indonesia to Bali. It
maybe expected in many other places. Highly
specialised species that has adapted to life on
various soft corals on which is feeds. Part of
the coral appears to live symbiotically in the
skin and reacts into warty-like growth around
the short spines on the head and body. This
gives a perfect camouflage and matches
colour and shape of its host in detail, and may
seem like different species. Post-pelagic
young settle on various hosts, but to breed
they appear to prefer the red-polyp Muricella
spp that usually grows in depths over 20 m. A
tiny species, height to 2 cm.
A
H. bargibanti. female. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Little is known about behaviour of this
species. I observed a small colony on a
Gorgonian fan in Lembeh Strait, comprising F F G
at least 3 pairs and several more individuals. H. bargibanti. female. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. H. bargibanti. Female variations, Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 23-28 m. Akira OGAWA.
The 3 pairs were all very active one late
October morning, males following the females
and they interacted as shown in the photo-
graphs to the right. The male often pecked at
the female, possibly making clicking noises
like some other seahorse species do, but not
loud enough for the human-divers ear. The
males were all skinny and showed some evi-
dence of a small pouch and by their behaviour
seemed to be getting ready to take-on parent-
hood. The following year, in the same place,
birth was observed by Denise Tacket and Sara
Lourie. It was initiated accidently when Sara
was trying to measure a pregnant male. It
produced 21 tiny young that swim away to
open water to start their initially pelagic life.
They could travel far and is the reason for
their large geographical range.

B C H I
H. bargibanti. B Fish or Coral?, C close-up, showing short tubular mouth. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. H. bargibanti. Sequence of courtship behaviour. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi, .

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 Short-pouch Pygmy Pipehorse Acentronura breviperula Pacific Blue-stripe Pipefish
Acentronura breviperula Fraser-Brunner & Whitley, 1949. Doryrhamphus melanopleura
Queensland, Australia. Syngnathus melanopleura Bleeker, 1858. Kokos Isl.
West Pacific, but may comprise several species. Previously included West Pacific. Blue stripe along upper sides is wide and
with A. tentaculata, a Red Sea endemic. Typically found on small and lacks dark borders. Males carry about 85 large eggs in a
sparge seagrasses that grow adjacent to reefs. Shallow to moderate simple semi-open pouch under the trunk (B). Secretive
depths, and known range from 1-20 m. Usually found in pairs. Females under large coral pieces on shallow reef flats and
are slender and pipefish-like, but larger males are more seahorse-like. lagoons. Adults usually in pairs and pick parasites of
Small species, usually to about 50 mm. other fishes. Length to 60 mm.

A
A. breviperula. Courting pair, Sulawesi. Length 50 mm.
A B
D. melanopleura. Maumere, Flores. L. 5 cm D. melanopleura. Sanur Lagoon, Bali, Indonesia. Male, length 60 mm.
C
A. breviperula. Brooding male. Gilimanuk, Bali. L. 45 mm. Honshu Pipefish Doryrhamphus japonicus
Doryrhamphus melanopleura japonica
Araga & Yoshino, 1975. Tanabe Bay, Japan.

Japan to northern Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Blue

stripe narrow with black margins. It inhabits sheltered
rocky reefs, usually in seen pairs and swims near
sponges or long-spined urchins. An active cleaner that
shares crevices with shrimps, large mud-crabs and
sometimes moray eels. Reported from tide pools to
depths of at least 25 m off shore, but mostly seen in shal-
low depths. Length to 85 mm.
B D
A. breviperula. Brooding male. Maumere, Flores. Length 45 mm. A. breviperula. Gravid female. Sulawesi. Length 45 mm. D. japonicus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi, Indonesia. L 45 mm

Double-ended Pipehorse Syngnathoides biaculeatus Cleaner Pipefish Doryrhamphus janssi

Sygnathus biaculeatus Bloch, 1785. East Indies. Dentirostrum janssi Herald & Randall, 1972. Palau Isl.
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific from east Africa and Red Sea to Japan and central Pacific. Usually Widespread West Pacific, Philippines to northern
found in sheltered lagoons amongst broad-leafed seagrasses. Large numbers of adults were observed Australia, and east Indian Ocean, Christmas Island and
in Maumere Bay after the wet-season in sargassum rafts. When they became alarmed from the Andaman Sea. Much more elongated and longer snout
approaching camera, some jumped on top of the weed to escape potential danger from below. They than other members in genus. Sheltered inner reefs, usu-
would stay out of the water for a considerable length of time, before jumping back in. Variable green to ally in caves with sponges and below large plate corals.
brown or grey, depending on habitat. Length to about 28 cm. Very active cleaner and has cleaning station that is visit-
ed by apogonids and damsels where adults work in pairs.
Length to 14 cm.
A
D. janssi. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. L. 85 mm.

B
S. biaculeatus. Sanur Lagoon, Bali. Male with brood. Length about 25 cm.

A C B
S. biaculeatus. Bali. Female, 25 cm. S. biaculeatus. Maumere Bay, Flores. Surface waters amongst Sargassum raft. Length about 25 cm. D. janssi. Pulau Putri, Java, Indonesia. Largest about 12 cm. Cleaning damsel, Neopomacentrus anabatoides (Bleeker).

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 Banded Pipefish Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus Sulawesi Pipefish
Syngnathus dactyliophorus Bleeker, 1853. Java. Dunckerocampus sp 2
Appears to be undescribed and known from
West Pacific. A shallow water species, commonly found
northern Sulawesi, Solomon Isl, Guam, and
inshore and outer reef lagoons, sometimes forming groups
southern Japan. Very similar to D. dactylio-
with numerous individuals, but adults usually seen in pairs.
phorus, but dark bands broad ventrally, and
Males carry eggs below the trunk that are red when fresh.
those on tail are wider than pale inter-
They hatch after a few weeks and young are almost trans-
spaces. Caudal fin small, and marked like D.
parent, and pelagic to about 30 mm. Pigmentation begins
multiannulatus from the Indian Ocean.
when settling on the substrate. Juveniles often near tidal
Length to about 20 cm.
zone and in rockpools. Adults to about 10 m depth. They are
often seen in large caves with shrimps or moray eels and
engage in cleaning activities, probably picking small cope-
pods or other parasitic crustacea from other fishes. Length
to about 18 cm.

A D. sp 2. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 29 m. Juvenile, length 65 mm.

D. dactyliophorus. Maumere, Flores. Juveniles, length 10 cm.

Yellow Banded Pipefish

Dunckerocampus pessuliferus
Dunckerocampus pessuliferus
Fowler, 1938. Sulu Archipelago.

West Pacific from Philippines to southern

Indonesia, along Wallis line, and northern
C
Sulawesi. Seems to prefer muddy substrate
D. dactyliophorus. Tulamben, Bali. Male with brood.
and usually seen by divers in deep waters
that are not disturbed by waves, but it
enters shallow estuaries. Adults form pairs
and usually swim along the bottom around
large remote coral heads on mudslopes. An
active cleaner and often swims up to the
D
B D. dactyliophorus. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi.
camera, checking it for as a potential cus-
D. dactyliophorus. Tulamben, Bali. Length 16 cm. Night, open ocean. Pelagic young, about 30 mm. tomer. Length to 16 cm.
A
D. pessuliferus. Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia. Juvenile, 10 cm
Broad-banded Pipefish Dunckerocampus boylei
Dunckerocampus boylei Kuiter, 1998. Mauritius.

Widespread Indian Ocean and Red Sea. A little known

species, previously confused with the common banded
pipefish Dunckerocampus dactyliophorus and distinguished
from that species by its broader bands and diagnostic cau-
dal fin pattern. Appears to prefer depths of about 25 m or
more and is easily overlooked. Only single individuals were
observed in the back of caves but the holotype, a male, and a
paratype, a female, were collected together. The largest speci-
men measures just over 16 cm.
A
D. boylei. Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia. Length 16 cm.

B
D. pessuliferus. Gilimanuk, Bali, Indonesia. Juvenile, 12 cm.

Many-bands Pipefish
Dunckerocampus multiannulatus
Doryrhamphus (Dunckerocampus)
multiannulatus
Regan, 1903. Mauritius.

Widespread Indian Ocean from east Africa

to Sumatra. Sheltered reefs, usually in the
back of caves or large overhangs to about
20 m depth. Adults often in pairs. Nearly
always seen swimming upside down
against ceiling of caves. Combined colour
patterns of caudal fin and body are diag-
B C nostic. Length to 19 cm.
D. boylei. Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia. B length 16 cm. C length 12 cm. Bill Boyle. D. multiannulatus. Maldives. Length about 16 cm.

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 Reef-top Pipefish Banded Messmate Pipefish
Corythoichthys haematopterus Corythoichthys sp 2
Syngnathus haematopterus Bleeker, 1851.
Banda Neira, Indonesia. Known from Flores and Moluccen Seas in
Indonesia, where it replaces the closely related
Widespread West Pacific. Sheltered inner reef flats C. intestinalis and Rowley Shoals, off north-
and rubble lagoons, usually semi-silty zones. western Australia. Reported as C. flavofasciatus
Intertidal and generally shallow, to about 10 meters and C. haematopterus in some books. Generally
depth. Adults nearly always in pairs. Fine lines on the has a more striated pattern compared to similar
head and series of spots over the back and along species, lacking any vermiculation of the lines,
trunk. Caudal fin mainly pink. Length to 18 cm. and even alternating dark and yellow banding
A
along the entire body. A somewhat stocky
species compared to the others mentioned. C. sp 2. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi, Indonesia. Length 17 cm.
Usually found on algae and coral reefs to about
A
15 m depth or nearby on coarse sand and rub-
ble. Often in small aggregations under jetties
C. haematopterus. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Length. 18 cm.
that are typically built in protected areas, often
in large lagoons. Caudal fin pinkish with pale
margin like in many other species in the genus
that venture onto rubble and sand along reef
margins. Length to 17 cm.

B
C. sp 2. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Length 17 cm.

B C
C. haematopterus. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Length. 18 cm. C. haematopterus. Singapore. Length. 16 cm.

Yellow-scribbled Pipefish
Corythoichthys sp 1
Undetermined species that may have been confused
with C. haematopterus or C. flavofasciatus. Series of
black spots along back ridges and reticulations
along sides. A net work of yellow lines over most of
the body. Caudal fin pinkish. Silty inshore reefs.
Length to 18 cm.

A
C. sp 1. Pulau Putri, Java, Indonesia. Brooding male, length 18 cm.
C
C. sp 2. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi, Indonesia. Length 17 cm.

B D
C. sp 1. Karimun Is, Java, Indonesia. Depth 5 m. Length 18 cm.. C. sp 2. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Length 17 cm. Showing typical head and anterior body pattern.

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 Schultz’s Pipefish Corythoichthys schultzi Red-spot Pipefish
Corythoichthys schultzi Herald, 1953. Marshall Isl. Corythoichthys sp 3
Known from Bali & Flores, Indonesia, and
Widespread Indo-West Pacific from southern Japan
PNG to northern Great Barrier Reef. A
to northern Australia and west to African coast.
short-snouted species that appears to be
Usually on coarse sand and rubble along edges of
undescribed. Closely related to C.
reefs. Adults in pairs or small aggregations when in
amplexus but dark bands narrow or less
the open or in safe places at night. Indistinctly
distinct and it grows much larger. Each
banded, dark bands followed by narrow pale one.
dark band followed by a narrower white
Back ridges with series of orange dashes and sides
A one, snout with small red spots, and
with elongates spots, sometimes forming series of
C. schultzi. Maumere, Flores. Length 17 cm. female with a distinct bright red spot ven-
short lines. Length to 16 cm.
trally on the first dark body band (A). On
mixed coral and algae reef to about 25 m
depth. Length to 12 cm. A
C. sp 3. Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia. Length 12 cm.

B C
B C. sp 3. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Length 12 cm. C. sp 3. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Length 12 cm.
C. schultzi. Maumere, Flores. Length 17 cm.
White-faced Pipefish
Yellow-spotted Pipefish Corythoichthys sp 4
Corythoichthys polynotatus West Pacific from southern Japan to
Corythoichthys polynotatus Dawson, 1977. southern Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
Palau Isl. Previously included with C. amplexus.
Snout very short. Dark bands much broad-
West Pacific, Palau and Philippines to southern er than pale interspaces. Head in front of
Indonesia. Mainly found in shallow rubble lagoons eyes mostly white, snout with dark lateral
with algae and seagrasses. Often intertidal, and stripe or spots. Secretive on sheltered
usually in only a few meters depth. Lacks black coral reefs, mainly inshore, and to depths
lines and primarily a yellow-spotted pattern dorsal- of about 20 m. Length to 90 mm.
ly. Caudal fin mainly pink. Length to 16 cm. B
C. sp 4. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Brooding male, 90 mm.

A
C. polynotatus. Sanur, Bali. Length. 16 cm.

B A
C. polynotatus. Maumere, Flores. Brooding make, length. 18 cm. C. sp 4. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Female, 85 mm.

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 Bend Stick Pipefish Whiskered Pipefish
Trachyrhamphus bicoarctatus Halicampus macrorhynchus
Syngnathus bicoarctatus Bleeker, 1857 Halicampus macrorhynchus Bamber, 1915.
Ambon, Indonesia. Suez, Red Sea.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but proba- Appears to represent a single widespread species
bly comprises several similar species that from the Red Sea to the West Pacific. Red Sea popu-
are distributed over the area. Some popula- lation represents the true species. It shows slight dif-
tions inhabits seagrass beds and others ferences with populations from elsewhere, but these
only rubble sand areas. Most are seen on maybe contributed to the environment. Colours vary
sand and mud areas, prone to currents. with habitat, colourful on algae-rubble and dull on
A Usually soft bottom to about 25 m. Length sand. Juveniles with round-leafed seagrasses on sand
T. bicoarctatus. Maumere, Flores. Length 30 cm. to at least 40 cm. slopes, usually settling from pelagic stage at about 8
cm long. Adults on sand or algae covered reefs to
about 25 m depth. Length to 18 cm.

A
H. macrorhynchus. Tulamben, Bali. Length 9 cm.

B B C
T. bicoarctatus. Pulau Putri, Java. Length 40 cm. H. macrorhynchus. As A, close-up. H. macrorhynchus. Lizard Is, Queensland, Australia. Length about 8 cm.

Straight Stick Pipefish

Trachyrhamphus longirostris
Trachyrhamphus longirostris
Kaup, 1856. Asia.

Reported from throughout the tropical

Indo-West Pacific but various populations
may represent additional species. May be
confused with the similar T. bicoarctatus
from which it is distinguished by the lack of
D
A appendages on the trunk in the juveniles,
H. macrorhynchus. Pulau Putri, Java. Length about 20 cm.
T. longirostris. Gili Manuk, Bali. Length 30 cm. head at no angle to the body, and colour
patterns. It is less common and is mainly
known from deep trawls over muddy sub- Brock’s Pipefish Halicampus brocki
strates, but it enters sheltered muddy estu- Micrognathus brocki Herald, 1953. Bikini Atoll, Marshall Isl.
aries where laying out in the open on the
bottom. Length to 40 cm. Widespread West Pacific, southern Japan to northern Australia. Slender
species with branching tentacles on the head as shown in B Inner reefs,
coral and algae-rich habitats, usually at moderate depths. Flores speci-
men was photographed at 35 m depth. Length to 12 cm.

B
T. longirostris. Gili Manuk, Bali. Length 30 cm.

C A B
T. longirostris. Gili Manuk, Bali, Indonesia. Length 30 cm. H. brocki. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Length 12 cm, male.

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 Red-hair Pipefish Halicampus dunckeri Samoan Pipefish
Micrognathus dunckeri Chabanaud, 1929. Ambon. Halicampus mataafae
Indonesia and Philippines, but several similar Corythroichthys mataafae Jordan & Seale,
species elsewhere reported as this species. Head 1906. Samoa.
with simple but long filaments and small leafy bits Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Many geo-
along the back as shown in A, but latter usually graphical variations and probably comprises a
smaller in other individuals. Snout short with round- species-complex. Rock and coral habitats
ed dorsal ridge, and eyes large. Coastal algae-rubble from tidal pools to 15 m depth. Length 10-14
slopes to 25 m depth. Length to 12 cm. cm depending on locality.
A
H. mataafae. Lizard Isl, Queensland, Australia. Brooding male, 65 mm.

Mud Pipefish
Halicampus grayi
Halicampus grayi Kaup, 1856.
No type-locality.
Widespread West Pacific, Andaman Sea and
southern Red Sea. Short-snouted species with
large eyes. Lives in muddy habitats, often cov-
ered with silt and extremely well camouflaged.
Shallow inshore muddy bays to deep offshore,
reported to 100 m depth. Length to 15 cm.
B C H. grayi. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 15 cm, male.
H. dunckeri. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10-20 m. B Brooding male, length about 12 cm.
Pale-blotched Pipefish
Spiny-snout Pipefish Phoxocampus diacanthus
Halicampus spinirostris
Ichthyocampus diacanthus Schultz, 1943.
Micrognathus spinirostris Dawson & Allen, Samoa.
1981. North West Cape, Western Australia.
Widespread West Pacific, ranging west to Sri
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but few speci- Lanka and east to Samoa. Shallow protected
mens known. Brown with about 4 broad black rubble reefs to depths of 40 m. Length to 87 mm.
bands on trunk, each separated by a thin white
bar. Rubble lagoons, intertidal. Length to 12 cm.

P. diacanthus. Lizard Island, Queensland, Australia. Length about 5 cm.

A
Trunk-barred Pipefish
Phoxocampus tetrophthalmus
Syngnathus tetrophthalmus. Bleeker, 1858.
Kokos Isl, Indonesia.

Philippines and Indonesia, including western

Irian Jaya. Lateral trunk ridge runs to at least
13th tail ring. This ends before 6th in other
species, except for P. kampeni. Coral reef habi-
tats to about 10 m depth. Length to 80 mm.
B
H. spinirostris. Tidal lagoon, Maumere, Flores. Length 12 cm.

Glittering Pipefish
Halicampus nitidus
P. tetrophthalmus. Raja Ampat Islands, Irian Jaya. Length 65 mm. G.R. ALLEN.
Syngnathus nitidus Günther, 1873. Australia.
Widespread West Pacific, northern Australia to Kampen’s Pipefish
southern Japan. Mainly found on coral reef flats to Phoxocampus kampeni
about 20 m depth. Easily recognised by colour but
Ichthyocampus kampeni. Weber, 1913,
secretive and not often seen. A small species,
Indonesia and New Guinea.
largest known is 73 mm.
Indonesia and New Guinea. Previously included
with P. tetrophthalmus. Mainly dark brown with
thin black striations. Secretive on soft-bottom
substrates to 20 m depth. Length to 80 mm.

H. nitidus. Rabaul, PNG. Length 55 mm. Roger C. STEENE. P. kampeni. Port Moresby, PNG. Length 75 mm. Neville COLEMAN.

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 Maxweber’s Pipefish Corrugated Pipefish Bhanotia fasciolata
Cosmocampus maxweberi Syngnathus fasciolatus. Duméril, 1870. Java.
Syngnathus maxweberi Whitley, 1933. Known from Andaman Sea to New Hebrides.
Replacement name for S. punctatus Head raised with ridge from behind eyes.
Weber, 1913. Sumbawa, Indonesia. Indistinct dark bars below head. Lives openly on
muddy or silty substrates in 3 to 25 m depth.
West Pacific. Secretive, inner reefs at mod-
Length to 9 cm.
erate depths to about 35 m. Under large rub-
ble coraline rubble pieces. Length to 10 cm. Bhanotia sewelli Hora, 1925, from Andaman Sea,
C. maxweberi. Maumere, Flores. Length 10 cm.
Syngnathus uncinatus and S. corrugatus Weber,
A
1913 from Indonesia are regarded as synonyms.
Offshore Pipefish B. fasciolata. Thailand. Length 75 mm. Ukkrit SATAPOOMIN.
Micrognathus natans
Micrognathus natans Dawson, 1982. Fiji.
West Pacific, Philippines to Queensland,
Australia and Fiji. Similar to M. andersonii,
but more slender, longer snout and has
A fewer trunk-rings, normally 14 versus 15-
M. natans. Maumere Bay, Flores. Female, 80 mm. 17. Most specimens are known from
plankton collections. Specimens from
Flores were found on muddy, silty sub-
strates in 15-25 m depth and may prefer
deep sheltered habitats. Length to 60 mm.
B
B. fasciolata. Thailand. Length 75 mm. Ukkrit SATAPOOMIN.

B
M. natans. Maumere Bay, Flores. Brooding male, 85 mm.
Sculptured Pipefish
Choeroichthys sculptus
Anderson’s Pipefish Doryichthys sculptus Günther, 1870. Fiji.
Micrognathus andersonii Apparently widespread Indo-West Pacific,
Syngnathus andersonii Bleeker, probably species-complex. Short-snouted.
1858. Kokos Is, Indonesia. Dark, blackish brown with small black spots
and small white ocelli in parallel series along
Indo-West Pacific, probably restricted to trunk, and some white speckles over the back.
Indonesia, and part of a species complex. Shallow reef and seagrass habitats to few
Inhabits tidepools and usually amongst meters depth. Length to 80 mm.
sparse seagrasses and rubble to about 10
m depth. Length to 85 mm. C. sculptus. Christmas Isl, Indian Ocean. Length 65 mm. Roger C. STEENE.
M. andersonii. Mabul, Borneo, Malaysia. Brooding male, 65 mm.
Barred Short-bodied Pipefish
Myer’s Pipefish Choeroichthys cinctus
Minyichthys myersi Choeroichthys cinctus Dawson, 1976
Micrognathus (Minyichthys) myersi Moluccas Is. Indonesia
Herald & Randall, 1972. Guam. Widespread Indonesia, to Queensland, Australia
West Pacific and specimens from western and to Samoa. Pale white to yellowish with dis-
Indian Ocean are thought to represent this tinct black barring on the trunk, followed by
species also. Rubble reef slopes and flats spots on the tail. Sheltered reef habitats, usually
at various depths from about 6 m. Length in crevices with sponges and in depths over 10
to about 60 mm. m. Length to 80 mm.
C. cinctus. Maumere, Flores. Length 40 mm.
M. myersi. Maumere Bay, Flores. Holotype, length 40 mm.
Pacific Short-bodied Pipefish
Few-rayed Pipefish Choeroichthys brachysoma
Bhanotia pauciradiata Syngnathus brachysoma Bleeker, 1855.
Bhanotia pauciradiata Allen & Kuiter, Batu Archipelago, Indonesia.
1995. Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. West Pacific. Dark brown with parallel of small
Known from single specimen, collected black spots in series along trunk, and some
from a reef slope with algae covered white speckles. Shallow reef and seagrass habi-
coralline rock-rubble. With small size and tats to about 20 m depth. Length to 65 mm.
excellent camouflage it is easily over-
looked. Length only 33 mm and probably a
B. pauciradiata. Maumere Bay, Flores. Length 33 mm. fully grown female. C. brachysoma. Mabul, Malaysia. Length 50 mm.

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 Mushroom-coral Pipefish Blue-speckled Pipefish Hippichthys cyanospilos
Siokunichthys nigrolineatus Syngnathus cyanospilos Bleeker, 1854. Banda Neira.
Siokunichthys nigrolineatus Dawson, 1983.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific from Red Sea and east
Moluccas Is, Indonesia.
African coast to Fiji, Philippines and to north-eastern
Australia. Shallow coastal tidal estuaries, mangroves,
Southern Indonesia and Papua New Guinea to
and brackish water. Variable pale yellow to nearly black.
Philippines. Lives amongst the tentacles of
Dorsal fin with series of small black spots, diagnostic for
mushroom corals such as Heliofungia actini-
this species. Length to 16 cm.
formes in photographs. Sometimes the pipefish
is mistaken by divers for a worm and the coral A
for an anemone. The pipefishes occur in small
groups, usually of mixed sex and sizes. Depth
range 10-20 m and habitat at bases of small
drops of inner reefs, often adjacent to large
lagoons which discharge large volumes of
water over reefs on outgoing tides that usually
carry plankton. Length to 80 mm.

B
A H. cyanospilos. Female. Gilimanuk, Bali. Roger C. STEENE. (A-B)
S. nigrolineatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length to 80 mm.

C
H. cyanospilos. Male. Gilimanuk, Bali. Akira OGAWA.

B C D
S. nigrolineatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length to 80 mm. S. nigrolineatus. Maumere, Flores. H. cyanospilos. Brooding male. Gilimanuk, Bali.

Soft-coral Pipefish Siokunichthys breviceps Minute Pipefish Apterygocampus epinnulatus

Siokunichthys breviceps Smith, 1963. Pinda, Mozambique. Apterygocampus epinnulatus Weber, 1913. Off Ceram,
Populations in West Indian Ocean and in West Pacific that probably Indonesia.
represent two species. Life-colours of West Indian Ocean form is not West Pacific, known from few specimens. Most collect-
known at this stage, except as uniform light cream for the type mate- ed at night at the surface with lights, and holotype from
rial. West Pacific form has a banded pattern. It is found in soft-coral ‘reef’, a brooding male that lacks dorsal and pectoral
habitats in coastal waters in depths to about 10 m. Length to 15 cm. fins, whilst those fins present in its pouch-larvae.
Planktonic specimens at similar size of adults have dor-
sal fin and pectoral fins. The female looks much like
female Acentronura, but have a moderately large caudal
fin. The pouch of the male holotype is sac-like, also sim-
ilar to Acentronura. Because of minute size is easily
overlooked. Few were found on shallow mudflats with
sparse seagrasses. Length to about 30 mm (largest
specimen known is 28 mm).

S. cf breviceps. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. A. epinnulatus. 3 m depth, Maumere, Flores, Indonesia. Female, length 25 mm.

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 GHOSTPIPEFISHES - SOLENOSTOMIDAE Robust Ghostpipefish
Solenostomus cyanopterus
Represented by a single genus: Solenostomus. They differ from SYNGNATHIDAE with the presence of ventral fins, second dorsal fins, Solenostoma cyanopterus Bleeker, 1854.
and all fins well developed and large. In contrast to brooding males in SYNGNATHIDAE, the Ghostpipefishes have brooding females that Ceram, Indonesia.
use their large ventral fins to form a pouch. The fins are held together like flattened hands and the upper edge, on inner ray, hooks
onto the small lateral spines on the body. Most species appear to be widespread that is due to their long pelagic stage that reaches Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific, expa-
almost the full length of adults. The various species seem to have different preferences with regards to habitats that range from triating to sub-tropical zones. Mostly pelagic
muddy open substrates to rich invertebrate reefs. It appears that they are short-lived, perhaps have an annual cycle, as they appear until settling on substrate for breeding.
Primarily associates with vegetation, taking
seasonally in certain areas for the purpose of breeding. Adults generally pair up but some species maybe found in small groups.
on colours of various algaes or seagrasses,
They are usually seen in sandy-rubble substrates near objects, floating almost motionless at almost vertical angle to the bottom with from bright green to brown or black. Caudal
the head down. They feed on small shrimp-like crustaceans that are either snapped up from the water column or from the bottom. peduncle short or lost in large females.
Some species may target particular prey that live on other invertebrates such as on gorgonians or crinoids. Length to 15 cm.

Ornate Ghostpipefish
Solenostomus paradoxus A
Fistularia paradoxa Pallas, 1770. Ambon, Indonesia. S. cyanopterus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Female, length 12 cm.

Indo-West Pacific, from Red Sea and all of Indian Ocean

to West and Central Pacific, and expatriate to sub-tropi-
cal zones. Mostly pelagic until settling on substrate to
breed. Post-pelagic are almost fully transparent and
more slender compared to those established in the ben-
thic phase. Variable in colour from black to red and yel-
low, usually in a mix of bands and spots as shown in
photographs. Usually settles along reef edges in cur-
rent-prone areas where they pair or form small groups
of several individuals. Up to 6 have been seen together
A with black-coral bushes on rubble ridges. In tropical
S. paradoxus. Probable male, about 8 cm. Tulamben, Bali. waters they are often seen near crinoids or gorgonian
corals that grow from reef over sand areas. They feed
mostly on mysids but also target small benthic shrimps.
Mostly occurs in sheltered coastal waters and estuaries
where in current channels to about 35 m depth. Length
to 11 cm

B
B C D
S. paradoxus. Post pelagic stage, about 65 mm. Tulamben, Bali.
S. cyanopterus. Gilimanuk, Bali.. S. cyanopterus. Bali. 14 cm. Brooding female, B close-up of pouch.

C D E E
S. paradoxus. C Birth, young just expels. D Refreshing eggs, opening and closing pouch. E Close-up of snout. All: Maumere, Flores. S. cyanopterus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Male, length 12 cm.

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 Delicate Ghostpipefish Long-tail Ghostpipefish
Solenostomus leptosomus Solenostomus armatus
Solenostomus leptosoma Tanaka, 1908. Solenostomus armatus Weber, 1913.
Yodomi, Sagami Sea, Japan. Arafura Sea, Indonesia.

Widespread tropical West Pacific, known from Only known from a few localities in the West
Japan to Australia. Reef-edges, bordering on Pacific. A rarely noticed species, plain greenish to
open sand-substrates, usually in depths of 15 yellow in colour and may look like the post-pelagic
m or more. Mostly pelagic until settling on sub- stage of the common S. cyanopterus. It differs
strate for breeding at almost full maximum size. most obviously by the long caudal peduncle and
Variable from pink to brown-red, has a diag- elongated caudal fin. Little is known about this
nostic bushy fleshy appendage below middle of species. The type material came from a muddy
snout. Length to about 10 cm. bottom trawl over 40 m depth. Length to 12 cm.

S. armatus. Female with brood in pouched ventrals. Osesaki, Japan. Masaya TAKAHASHI.

Halimeda Ghostpipefish
Solenostomus sp 1
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific, known
S. leptosomus. Tulamben, Bali. Length 10 cm.
from numerous localities of the Indian Ocean to
West Pacific. A small species with a very large
head, its length up to about equal to length of the
Rough-snout Ghostpipefish body. Caudal fin small, about same size and shape
Solenostomus paegnius as the 1st dorsal and ventral fins. Caudal peduncle
Solenostomus paegnius. long, its length about 2-3 times its height. Often
Jordan & Thompson, 1914. Misaki, Japan. found with Halimeda or coralline algae, matching
Solenichthys raceki Whitley, 1955. Australia. their colours from bright green to red. Sometimes
with filamentous algae and covered with long fila-
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Algae ments. This form is often called Hairy
reef and softbottom substrates, usually in Ghostpipefish. Seen to about 15 m depth. Smallest
depths of 10 m or more. Mostly pelagic until species, length to 65 mm. A
settling on substrate for breeding at almost full S. sp 1. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi, Indonesia. Roger STEENE.
maximum size. Variable from bright-green to
brown-red with small speckles, usually with
several bushy fleshy appendages below snout.
Similar to S. cyanopterus, but always with short
caudal peduncle. Length to about 12 cm.

A
S. paegnius. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 15 m. Length 11 cm. Roger STEENE.

B
S. sp. 1. Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia. Depth 15 m. Length 6 cm.

B C D
S. paegnius. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 10 cm. S. sp. 1. Sulawesi, Roger STEENE. S. sp 1. Solomon Islands. Length 65 mm. Bob HALSTEAD.

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 Rigid Shrimpfish
SHRIMPFISHES - CENTRISCIDAE Centriscus scutatus
Small family, represented by two genera: Aeoliscus and Centriscus which can be visually distinguished by the structure of the large Centriscus scutatus Linnaeus, 1758.
East India.
dorsal spine that is rigid in the former and hinged from a joint at about halfway in the latter. Perculiar fishes that have adapted to a
vertical posture and swim with their head downwards. Body extremely compressed, thin, wafer-like. They feed on tiny swimming Widespread West Pacific to Andaman Sea.
invertebrates or zooplankton with their long pincer-like jaws. Eggs and young pelagic, often settling amongst sea-urchin spines. Silvery with reddish brown to blackish mid-lat-
Adults may swim in densely packed and often large schools that move in sync. Often in large branching corals or seawhip gardens. eral stripe. Main dorsal spine moderately long
and without joint. Usually in large schools
amongst branching corals, seawhip gardens,
and black coral bushes, to about 15 m depth.
Coral Shrimpfish Aeoliscus strigatus
Small juveniles in surface waters and some-
Amphisile strigata Günther, 1861. times in small groups along beach edges in
Java, Indonesia. quite bays and settle with crinoids or urchins.
Length to 14 cm.
Widespread West Pacific and Indian Ocean as far as the
Seychelles. Recognised by hinged part of dorsal fin spine,
typically as in A. Variable in colour with habitat. Greenish-
yellow with diffused stripe when in seagrass environment.
Pale with black stripe when found on open substrate with
white sand or rubble. Usually found in large schools in
coastal bays and estuaries over seagrass beds. Juveniles A
pelagic, settling at about 20 mm length and often amongst C. scutatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 8 cm.
Diadema-urchin spines. Length to 14 cm.

A B
A. strigatus. Derawan Kalimantan. Depth 3 m. Length 12 cm. B
C. scutatus. Maumere, Flores. In C D
urchin, at 10 m. Length ~6 mm. C. scutatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 8 cm.

Wafer Shrimpfish Centriscus cristatus

Amphisile cristata De Vis 1885.Noosa beach, Queensland, Australia.

Widespread West Pacific. Main dorsal spine rigid, without joint. Dusky to
yellow mid-lateral stripe and adults with several blue bars along upper
sides. Occurs solitary or in small groups in seagrass habitats, inshore or in
estuaries. Largest shrimpfish, length to 20 cm.

C D E
A. strigatus. Mabul, Borneo, Malaysia. A. strigatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1 m. A. strigatus. Derawan Kalimantan. A B
Depth 7 m. Length 10 cm. Juvenile stage. Length 27 mm. Depth 3 m. Length 12 cm. C. cristatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Large adult, length ~20 cm. C. cristatus. Derawan Kalimantan. D. 3 m. L. 15 cm.

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 TRUMPETFISHES - AULOSTOMIDAE SEAMOTHS - PEGASIDAE
Comprises a single genus. Body long and tubular, slightly compressed. The soft dorsal and anal fins are places well back near cau- Represented by two genera, Pegasus Linnaeus, and Eurypegasus Bleeker and 5 species in total, 2 of which commonly encountered in
dal fin and ventral fins are placed about halfway along the body. A cunning predator that feeds on small fishes. Mimics the colour Indonesian waters.. They feature highly depressed bodies and large horizontal pectoral fins. In addition, their body is protected by a struc-
of other fishes it swims with to get close to prey. ture of bony plates and rings, like in the Syngnathids. They have a rostrum that extends over and well in front of the mouth. Primarily
benthic fishes, but have pelagic larval and early juvenile stages. Pairs rise from the substrate to spawn and produce pelagic eggs.
Pacific Trumpetfish Aulostomus chinensis
Fistularia chinensis Linnaeus, 1766. East Indies. Slender Seamoth Pegasus volitans
Pegasus volitans Linnaeus, 1758. Ambon, Indonesia.
Widespread tropical Indo-Pacific, juveniles expatri-
ating to sub-tropical zones. Readily identified by Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific, juveniles expatriating into sub-
shape and colour. Maybe confused with flutemouth tropical regions. Easily recognised by long and slender shape. Colour
(Fistularidae) that is more slender and has a long variable grey, brown to black with spots or diffused broad bands on the
filamentous caudal fin. A cunning predator of small tail. Adults mainly found in muddy estuaries where they pair. Sometimes
fishes, swimming in the shade of harmless species they are seen partly buried but also feed during the day by slowly crawl-
(see C), matching their colour. Variable patterns ing around on their fins. Usually in shallow depth to about 15 m, but
shown. Various reef habitat, usually solitary. reported to about 70 m. Sometimes found floating on surface. Length to
Length to 60 cm. 14 cm, rarely 18 cm (probably cooler regions only).
A A
A. chinensis. Maumere, Flores. Common adult colour. P. volitans. Pair, about 13 cm. Sulawesi. Depth 7 m.

B C B C
A. chinensis. Flores. Large juvenile, ~30 cm. A. chinensis. Bali, shading, ~30 cm. P. volitans. Male, about 13 cm. Sulawesi. Depth 7 m. P. volitans. Female, about 13 cm. Sulawesi. Depth 7 m.

Brick Seamoth Pegasus laternarius Little Dragonfish Eurypegasus draconis

FLUTEMOUTHS - FISTULARIIDAE Pegasus laternarius Cuvier, 1816. Indian Ocean. Pegasus draconis Linnaeus, 1766. Ambon (Ex F. Ruysch, 1710).
Comprises a single genus. Body long and tubular, slightly compressed. The soft dorsal and anal fins are places well back and ven- Mainland South-east Asian waters, ranging to southern Japan and in the Widespread Indo-West Pacific, expatriating to subtropical waters with
tral fins, with 6 rays, are placed about halfway along the body. Caudal fin forked with greatly prolonged central rays. Indian Ocean west to Sri Lanka. Rarely seen diving, except a few locali- pelagic young. Similar E. papilio (Gilbert, 1905) in Hawaii. Common
ties in Japan where they occur in sheltered muddy habitats. It has a vari- short-bodied species in coastal waters. Adults usually in pairs on
ety of colours and can be dull to bright yellow or blue. Readily identified muddy substrates. Variable in colour, mimicking items such as shell
Smooth Flutemouth by its rather short rostrum when juvenile or female. It is more developed bits in immediate vicinity for camouflage. Specimen kept in aquarium
Fistularia commersonii in males. Rare outside Japan, and are mainly known from trawls shed its outer layer of skin in a single piece to rid itself of epibiotic
Fistularia commersonii Rüppell, 1838. between 30-100 m depth. Length to 8 cm. growth, such as algaes or invertebrates. Length to 85 mm.
Mohila, Red Sea.

Widespread in all tropical seas. Adults are com-

monly seen on coral reefs and the only species in
such habitats in the Indo-Pacific. Greenish over the
back and adults with blue stripes or spots over the
A back. Broadly banded at night. Usually forms small
F. commersonii. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 1 m. aggregations on reef crests. Length to 1.5 m.

B
F. commersonii. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 75 cm. Night. E. laternarius. Flores, Indonesia. Depth 20 m. Juvenile. ~20 mm. E. draconis. Display when disturbed. Bali. Length 40 mm.

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 FLYING GURNARDS - DACTYLOPTERIDAE Spiny Flying Gurnard
Dactyloptena macracantha
Small family with 2 genera and about 7 species worldwide. They feature very large pectoral fins that gives the impression that they Dactylopterus macracanthus
Bleeker, 1854. Southern Sulawesi.
could fly. They can’t fly through the air, but appear to glide over the substrate when they swim. The fins maybe folded against their
body and spread at an instance when they are disturbed to startle the intruder. In addition the anterior rays are free and thickened, Widespread Indo-Pacific, but rarely
and together with the ventral fins to crawl and disturb prey from the bottom. observed due to mud-preferred habitats.
Can be found on shallow muddy estuaries
to deep offshore. Differs in colour from the
more common D. orientalis by the lack of
blue lines in the pectoral fins and has a
Flying Gurnard Dactyloptena orientalis
centrally placed dark blotch on the fin
Dactylopterus orientalis Cuvier, 1829. Red Sea. instead. Also the body lacks black spots.
Length to 30 cm.
Widespread Indo-Pacific. Sand and rubble zones adjacent to
reefs. In sheltered bays in shallow depths, 3-10 m, but also
deep offshore, reported to 100 m. Feeds on small benthic
fishes. Usually seend singly but sometimes in pairs. Length
to 32 cm.

A
D. macracantha. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm.

A B
D. orientalis. A South coast, Java. Depth 15 m. Length 30 cm. B Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm.

C B
D. orientalis. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 22 cm.. D. macracantha. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm.

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 LIONFISHES - PTERONINAE (SCORPAENIDAE)
Part of the large scorpionfish family, this subfamily comprises the large-finned and more familiar members. There are 5 genera in
the Indo-Pacific, but most species that are commonly encountered by divers on reefs belong in 2 different genera and some are
monotypic. These fishes possess venomous spines in the dorsal fin that can inflict painful stabs. Usually they are not aggresive but
may act when cornered. The large pectoral fins are useful for cornering prey, and most species have diagnostic markings on them.
Features such as the differences in webbing between the rays, or divided rays can be useful to distinguish similar species. Species
of Pterois are easily confused and some species included here were reported from Indonesian waters, but need verification. Some
species maybe restricted to cooler deep water and live on muddy substrates. When diving in muddy estuaries the lionfishes are
rarely given a second look, but most of the unusual species included here were photographed in such places.

Bleeker’s Lionfish
Ebosia bleekeri
Pterois bleekeri Döderlein, 1884.
Tokyo, Japan.

Southern Japan to Indonesia and eastern

Australia. A specimens was trawled just south
of Bali. Rare in Indonesia, but can be expect-
ed on occasion in places like Padangbai, Bali
or deep water slopes with cool upwellings.
Specimens in NSW, Australia came from
about 55 m depth. In Japan they occurs on
softbottom habitats with moderate currents.
Adults develop a curious bony protrusion on
top of the head. Length to 22 cm.

E. bleekeri. Osezaki, Japan. Depth 30 m. Length 20 cm.

Pygmy Lionfish
Brachypterois serrulata
Sebastes serrulates Richardson, 1846.
Sea of China.

Reported from southern Japan to east Indian

Ocean. Lives in muddy habitat that are very
sheltered and this is usually deep or very shel-
tered estuaries. Appears to be one of the more
primitive forms and has similar colouration to
some members of the genus Scorpaenodes,
especialy the markings on the head. Length to
about 12 cm.

A B D
B. serrulata. A South of Bitung, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L. 85 mm. Roger C. STEENE. B Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 4 m. L. 10 cm. B. serrulata. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 10 cm. C a pair near a large mud-hole that is used for shelter.

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 Gurnard Lionfish Spotfin Lionfish Pterois antennata
Parapterois heterura Scorpaena antennata Bloch, 1787. Ambon, Indonesia.
Pterois heterurus Bleeker, 1856.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Adults with bluish black
Ambon, Indonesia.
blotches near the base of the pectoral fins that are obvious
Indo-West Pacific from southern Japan to when viewed from above. Coral reef habitats, shallow to
Bali. Usually found in sheltered coastal bays about 30 m depth. Usually seen in crevices during the day
and fine sand or muddy habitats. A number of and typically with head towards the safety of their hide-out
specimens have been trawled deep offshore, or narrow passage. Length to 20 cm.
to 300 m depth. May partly bury itself in the
substrate during the day and is easily over-
looked. When disturbed the brightly coloured
pectoral fins probably serves to startle preda-
tors. The large fins serve primarily to corner
prey when hunting. It differes from other lion-
fishes in having long filaments at the tips of
the dorsal fin spines and outer rays of the cau-
dal fin. Length to 23 cm.
A
P. antennata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 18 cm.

A
P. heterura. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 18 cm. Alex STEFFE.

C B
P. antennata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. L. 16 cm. P. antennata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 14 cm.

White-lined Lionfish Pterois radiata

B C
Pterois radiata Cuvier, 1829. Tahiti.
P. heterura. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 18 cm. Alex STEFFE.
Widespread Indo-Pacific. Prefers rocky reefs and seems to
avoid stony corals. Coastal, sometimes in surge-zones
where in narrow crevices, or along rock-walls in small
caves. To about 25 m depth. Length to 20 cm.

D E B A
P. heterura. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 12 cm. P. radiata. Sangihe Isl. Depth 6 m. Length 12 cm. P. radiata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 16 cm.

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 African Lionfish Pterois mombasae Common Lionfish Pterois volitans
Pteropterus mombasae Smith, 1957. Gasterosteus volitans Linnaeus, 1758. Ambon.
Mombasa, Kenya..
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Various reef
Widespread Indian Ocean, ranging east to Bali, habitats from estuaries to outer reefs, adults
but possibly elsewhere. Easily confused with P. often congregate in large caves. Usually
antennata when seeing it underwater, but lives replaced by other species in muddy habitats.
in different habitat. Normally found on soft bot- Variable in colour, usually in relation to habi-
tom or muddy substrates with rich rubble tat. Coastal species generally darker, some-
ridges amongst rich invertebrate growth, espe- times almost black in estuaries. Often with
cially sponges. In depth over 15 m. Length to large tentacles above eyes. Pelagic juveniles
20 cm. expatriate over great distances and the reason
for their broad geographical range. Length to
35 cm.

Remarks: The use of P. miles for this species

in the Indian Ocean is based on confusion
with other congeners. Geographical variation
between the Indian and Pacific Ocean is no
more than between some populations in the
A Pacific itself. According to Stuart Poss, the
P. mombasae. Pulau Weh, Sumatra. Depth 19 m. Length 20 cm. oldest synonym from the Indian Ocean is
Scorpaena mahe Lacepéde, 1801. Seychelles.
A
P. volitans. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 30 cm.

B C
P. mombasae. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 20 m. Length 10 cm.

B C
P. volitans. Maumere, Flores. D. 25 m. L. 35 cm. P. volitans. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 30 cm.

D E D E F
P. mombasae. South coast, Java. Depth 30 m. Length 20 cm. P. mombasae. Tulamben, Bali. D. 30 m. L. 20 cm. Miki Tonozuka. P. volitans. Maumere, Flores. D. 6 m. L. 20 mm. P. volitans. Tulamben, Bali. D. 18 m. L. 35 mm. P. volitans. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 15 m. L. 18 cm.

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 Clearfin Lionfish Pterois kodipungi Tall-spine Lionfish Pterois sp 1
Pterois kodipungi Bleeker, 1852. Known from Flores, Banda and Moluccen Seas. Has
Bangka, Sumatra. 13 pectoral fin rays, very tall dorsal fin spines and
the median fins have tiny black spots. Almost cer-
Java Seas, Indonesia and possibly northern tainly undescribed. Lives in muddy bays and estuar-
Australia. Previously confused with P. russellii from ies in 3 to 30 m depth. Often seen on logs or tree
the western Indian Ocean. Lives on muddy sub- branches laying on open muddy substrates, pieces
strates from well protected shallow estuaries to washed out of rivers during the wet season. One of
quiet deep offshore habitats. One of several species the largest lionfishes, length to at least 40 cm.
with 13 pectoral fin rays. Lacks black spots in the
median fins that are usually present in opther simi-
lar species. Easily overlooked and mistaken for the
common lionfish P. volitans. Length to about 35 cm.

A B
P. kodipungi. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 30 cm. P. kodipungi. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 8 cm. A B
P. sp 1. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L. 20 cm. P. sp 1. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm.

C C
P. kodipungi. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 35 cm. Miki TONOZUKA. P. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 30 cm.

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 Soldier Lionfish Pterois miles Zebra Lionfish Dendrochirus zebra
Scorpaena miles Bennett, 1828. Sri Lanka. Pterois zebra Cuvier, 1829. Ambon.

Arabian Seas to Java. Was confused with P. volitans because Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal to outer reef habi-
it has 14 pectoral fin rays, but is more similar to P. russellii tats in sheltered lagoons and in caves. Sometimes in small
that has 13 rays. Adults have a band of small spines along aggregations. Usually shallow, but reported to 80 m depth.
the cheek and small spots in the median fins. Lives in coastal Pelagic stages travel great distances and expatriate to sub-
waters in muddy habitats. Length to 35 cm. tropical zones. Length to 20 cm.

A B A B
P. miles. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm. G.R. ALLEN. P. miles. Oman. D. 6 m. L. 15 cm. Phil WOODHEAD. D. zebra. Maumere, Flores. D. 6 m. L. 24 mm. D. zebra. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 18 cm.

Japanese Lionfish Pterois lunulata Two-eyed Lionfish Dendrochirus biocellatus

Pterois lunulata Temminck & Schlegel, 1843. Nemapterois biocellatus Fowler, 1938. Philippines.
Nagasaki, Japan.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. More secretive than other
Reported as widespread west Pacific and Indian Ocean, lionfishes in Indonesian waters, and usually only seen at
but probably restricted to sub-tropical Japan, China Seas night when they are active. During the day in caves and
and adjacent cooler waters. Possibly in deep water of sponges, and usually well out of sight. A distinctive species
Java Seas but records from Indonesia need to be verified. easily recognised by the eye-like spots in the soft dorsal fin,
It has 13 pectoral rays and maybe confused with P. rus- but also as feeler-like tentacles in front of the mouth. Coastal
sellii. Median fisn are almost clear, but become spotted in reef slopes to about 30 m depth. Length to 13 cm.
large adults. It is best identified by the pale centred scales
on the principle dark bands on the body, forming a net-
like pattern and V-like markings accross the pectoral fin
rays. Coastal bays, usually on open substrates with
remote outcrops of reef or soft bottom substrates at
moderate depths. Length to 35 cm.

A
D. biocellatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 12 cm.
A
P. lunulata. Osezaki, Japan. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm.

B C B
P. lunulata. Toba Aquarium, Japan. Length 35 cm. P. lunulata. Kashiwajima, Japan. D. 15 m. L. 25 cm. D. biocellatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Courting pair at night. Length 12 cm.

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 Dwarf Lionfish Dendrochirus brachypterus DEVILFISHES - CHORIDACTYLINAE (SCORPAENIDAE)
Pterois brachyptera Cuvier, 1829. No locality.
Part of the large scorpionfish family, comprising the genera Inimicus and Chorydactylus. These fishes possess venomous spines in
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, generally common. the dorsal fin that can inflict painful stabs. They have large pectoral fins with the lowermost 2 or 3 rays free and thickned that are
Lives in sheltered bays, lagoons, estuaries and
used to crawl and probe the bottom.
ranging to deep offshore. Adults often found on
sponges and juveniles are sometimes found in
small aggregations on remote bommies with 10 or
so individuals. A highly variable species from brown Devil Stinger Inimicus didactylus
to red and occasionally bright yellow. Best identified Scorpaena didactyla Pallas, 1769. Indian Ocean.
by the strong banding on the pectoral fins as shown
in D. Length to 15 cm. Widespread West Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean.
Sheltered sand habitats near reefs or large open rubble
patches on reef crests. Often buries itself and easily over-
looked. Uses pectoral fins to startle predators and shows
colours during courtship. Body colours highly variable and
best identified by the patterns on the fins. Length to 25 cm.

A
D. brachypterus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm.

A B
I. didactylus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm. I. didactylus. Maumere, Flores. Venomous spines.

B C
D. brachypterus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 15 mm. D. brachypterus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm.

B C
I. didactylus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 12 m. Length 15 cm. I. didactylus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm.

D E D E
D. brachypterus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 5 m. Length 12 cm. D. brachypterus. Sanur Lagoon, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm. I. didactylus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 22 cm. I. didactylus. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 10 m.

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 STINGFISHES - MINOINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) LONGFIN WASPFISHES - APISTINAE (SCORPAENIDAE)
Part of the large scorpionfish family, comprising the single genus Minous. These fishes possess venomous spines in the dorsal fin Part of the large scorpionfish family, comprising the two genera. They feature long pectoral fins with the lowermost ray free and
that can inflict painful stabs. They are short-bodied and have large pectoral fins with the lowermost ray free and thickned. About 10 thickned, and barbels on the chin. One species seen in Indonesia.
species known.

Painted Stingfish Minous pictus Longfin Waspfish Apistus carinatus

Minous pictus Günther, 1880. Scorpaena carinata Bloch & Schneider, 1801. India.
Arafura Sea, south of New Guinea.
Widespread West Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean. Sheltered
West Pacific, Philippines to southern Indonesia and muddy bays and estuaries to deep offshore. Primarily known from
New Guinea, and probably northern Australia. trawls over prawn-grounds but divers looking in suitable habitats
Sheltered muddy estuaries to deep offshore in mud- can come accross them, especially at night. During the day it buries
sand habitats. Buries itself during the day in the itself deep in the sand with just the eyes exposed. When disturbed,
substrate and is rarely observed, except when found it spreads its long pectoral fins with the bright upper colour to deter
by accident or at night. Length to 11 cm. predators. It uses its fins to corner prey and has sensitive barbels
below the mouth to detect those buried in the substrate. Length to
about 20 cm.

A
A. carinatus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm. Roger C. STEENE.

A B
M. pictus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm. Akira OGAWA. M. pictus. Ambon. D. 8 m. L. 10 cm. Roger C. STEENE.

Little Stingfish Minous pusillus

Minous pusillus Temminck & Schlegel, 1843.
Sea of Japan.

West Pacific, southern Japan to southern Indonesia

and New Guinea. Sheltered bays, shallow inshore
and probably ranging to deep offshore in mud-sand
habitats. Secretive, buries itself during the day in the
substrate and is rarely observed, except when found
by accident or at night when it sit on the substrate.
Length to 75 mm. B C
A. carinatus. Osezaki, Japan. Night. Depth 8 m. Adult, length 20 cm. A. carinatus. GILIMANUK, BALI. Depth 6 m. Length 16 cm. Alex STEFFE.

M. pusillus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 12 m. Length 6 cm. Neville Coleman.

Short-head Stingfish
Minous trachycephalus
Aploactis trachycephalus Bleeker, 1854. Sulawesi.

West Pacific, Philippines to northern Australia.

Secretive species, usually found by accident. Buries
itself in the sand during the day. Usually in shallow
sheltered habitats with sparse seagrass beds. Sits
on top of the sand at night. Length to about 12 cm.

D
M. trachycephalus. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 10 m. Length 12 cm. A. carinatus. Osezaki, Japan. Night. Depth 8 m. Adult, length 20 cm.

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 STONEFISHES - SYNANCIINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) SCORPIONFISHES - SCORPAENINAE (SCORPAENIDAE)
Part of the large scorpionfish family, comprising the six genera and about 10 species. Genus Synanceia usually encountered and the Encompasses most genera of the large scorpionfish family, but further studies may nominate more subfamily groups. All species
most venomous known fish. Venom at base of each dorsal spine and when skin on the spine is pushed down, it discharges under are thought to have venomous spines in the dorsal fin and contact should be avoided. There are several hundred species and many
pressure via a groove. of the geneara are in need of revision. Many species are similar and use the same camouflage that makes them almost impossible
to identify without examining the actual specimen. The small species are usually extremely secretive and rarely seen, even at night,
Reef Stonefish Synanceia verrucosa but have been collected by flushing them from reefs with chemicals. Diet comprises fishes and swimming invertebrates such as
cephalopods or shrimps.
Synanceia verrucosa Bloch & Schneider, 1801. India.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal reefs, usually on

shallow reef flats with algae-boulder habitat, or in gut- Coral Scorpionfish
ters in moderate surge zones. Colours matching sur- Sebastapistes cyanostigma
roundings and extremely well camouflaged, discovery Scorpaena cyanostigma Bleeker, 1856
by divers is often accidental. Although stabbings have Buru I, Moluccas.
not been reported, divers need to be aware of them on
shallow reefs, especially when walking in or out of the Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Reef crests with
water, and not handle these fish under any circum- rich coral growth. Typically found deep in the
stances. Length to 38 cm. corals, amongst the bases of Acropora branches
A
or in fire-corals. Length to 10 cm.
S. verrucosa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length 35 cm.

A B
S. cyanostigma. Sulawesi, night. Depth 3 m. S. cyanostigma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm.

Barchin Scorpionfish
Sebastapistes strongia
Scorpaena strongia Cuvier, 1829.
Caroline Islands.

B C Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but this distribu-

S. verrucosa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 35 cm. S. verrucosa. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm. tion may represent a species complex. Shallow
habitat, usually amongst rubble or in coral.
Length to 6 cm.
Estuary Stonefish Synanceia horrida
Scorpaena horrida Linnaeus, 1766. Bengal, India.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. A drab species, usually

brownish grey to reddish brown with a pattern of fine
lines accross the caudal fin. Extremely well camou-
flaged. Eyes well elevated compared to the reef stone-
fish S. verrucosa. Coastal silty reefs and estuaries.
S. strongia. Mabul, Borneo, Malaysia. Depth 4 m. Length 4 cm.
Usually buries itself in the sand or mud near reef edges.
Comes out at night and often moves on top of reefs.
Length to 40 cm. Painted Scorpionfish
Parascorpaena picta
Scorpaena picta Cuvier, 1829. Java.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Soft-bottom habi-

tats and in protected bays on silty substrates
amongst debris. Length to 10 cm.

A B
S. horrida. Moreton Bay, Qld, Australia. Depth 5 m. Length 40 cm. P. picta. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 8 cm.

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 Adam’s Scorpionfish Byno Scorpionfish Parascorpaena bynoensis
Parascorpaena mcadamsi Scorpaena bynoensis Richardson, 1845.
Scorpaena mcadamsi Fowler, 1938. Philippines. North Western Australia.

West Pacific, possibly widespread. Black dorsal spot is West Pacific, possibly several similar species. Rather plain mot-
thought to be sex-related, but is present in juveniles. tly-grey, but sometimes with yellow or orange snout. Fins
Secretive in reefs during the day and usually only seen at speckled and sometimes a dusky blotch on the lateral line below
night. Length to 7 cm. the first four dorsal fin spines. Shallow coastal lagoons and
large intertidal pools or estuaries. Silty reefs or amongst large
coral rubble pieces. Length to 12 cm.

A
A P. bynoensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 43 m. Length 5 cm.
P. mcadamsi. Sangihe Islands, night. Depth 10 m. Length ~7 cm.

C B
P. mcadamsi. Sangihe Islands, night. Depth 10 m. Length ~7 cm. P. mcadamsi. Tulamben, Bali. D. 10 m. L. ~45 mm.

B
Mozambique Scorpionfish P. bynoensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length 10 cm.
Parascorpaena mossambica
Scorpaena mossambica Peters, 1855. Mozambique. Guam Scorpionfish Scorpaenodes guamensis
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Rubble and sand habitat Scorpaena guamensis Quoy & Gaimard, 1824. Guam.
amongst reef. Protected shallow bays and channels, Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Shallow coastal rocky reefs,
usually seen at night. Has large and elaborate tentacle estuaries and large tidal pools or lagoons. Often upside-down in
above the eye. Length to 10 cm. crevices. Length to 12 cm.

P. mossambica. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 7 m. Length 10 cm. Roger Steene.

S. guamensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 10 cm.

Banda Scorpionfish
Parascorpaena bandanensis Smith’s Scorpionfish Scorpaenodes smithi
Scorpaena bandanensis Bleeker, 1851. Banda Neira. Scorpaenodes smithi Eschmeyer & Rama-Rao, 1972.
Andaman Sea..
Probably widespread Indo-West Pacific. Known from
Moluccen, Banda and Flores Seas. Mainly estuarine in One of at least 5 similar species, as a complex widespread Indo-
shallow rubble habitat. Length to 10 cm. West Pacific. Very similar to S. scaber from Australia and S. lit-
toralis from Japan that are substropical species. Along drop-offs
in caves and on rock walls. Length to 6 cm.

P. bandanensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1 m. Length 75 mm. Eating alpheid shrimp. S. smithi. Komodo. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm.

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 Blotchfin Scorpionfish Scorpaenodes varipinnis Flasher Scorpionfish
Scorpaena varipinnis Smith, 1957.Zanzibar. Scorpaenopsis macrochir
Scorpaenopsis macrochir Ogilby, 1910.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Juveniles often referred to S. parvipinnis
Queensland, Australia.
from Hawaii. Various reef habitats in shallow coastal lagoons to moder-
ate depths on outer reefs. Often in sponges or under rubble pieces to Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal sand
about 30 m depth. Length to 13 cm. slopes and estuarine bays. Usually buries itself
in the substrate when in sand or sits amongst
rubble where it has good camouflage. Length to
11 cm.

A
S. varipinnis. Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length ~12 cm. Adult colour.

A
S. macrochir. Raja Ampur, eastern Indonesia, Depth 20 m. Length 10 cm. Roger Steene.

B C
S. varipinnis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1 m. Length 55 mm. S. varipinnis. Bali. Depth 20 m. Length ~4 cm.

Hairy Scorpionfish Scorpaenodes hirsutus

Parascorpaena hirsutus Smith, 1957. Mozambique.

Widespread Indo-West Secretive in coral reefs and rarely observed, even

at night. Commonly known in collections. Rich coastal to outer coral
reefs. Length to 55 mm.

B C
S. macrochir. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 85 mm. Miki TONOZUKA.

Eared Scorpionfish Scorpaenopsis sp 1

S. hirsutus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 12 m. Length 55 mm.
Undetermined species from Bali estuaries.
Brock’s Scorpionfish Scorpaenodes brocki Seems closely related to S. macrochir, the
Scorpaena brocki Schultz, 1966. Talisse I., Indonesia. species above. Head large and with tall leafy
appendages above the eyes. A small species to
West Pacific. Sometimes synonymised with S. minor (Smith, 1958), an about 12 cm long, adult shown.
Indian Ocean species. Very secretive in coastal coral reefs and rarely
seen by divers, even at night. Length to 50 mm.

S. brocki. Maumere, Flores. Depth 12 m. Length 35 mm.

Long-fingered Scorpionfish Scorpaenodes albaiensis

Hypomacrus albaiensis Evermann & Seale, 1907.Philippines.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Very secretive in coastal coral reefs and

rarely seen by divers, even at night. Length to 12 cm.

S. albaiensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 12 m. Length 10 cm. S. sp 1. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 10 cm.

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 False Stonefish Scorpaenopsis diabola Double-spot Scorpionfish
Scorpaena diabola Cuvier, 1829. New Guinea. Scorpaenopsis sp 2
Only known from Bali, but probably widespread West
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal reef flats in rubble
Pacific. Lives at moderate depths on muddy sand
habitat. Often partly burried. Usually mistaken for a stone-
slopes with rubble ridges covered by rich invertebrate
fish because of the rock-like looks. Colourful inside the pec-
growth. Adults have a distinctive double black spot on
toral fins, used for display. Length to 18 cm.
their sides above the lateral line, below the end of the
spinous section of the dorsal fin. Latter has tall anteri-
or part with a pattern of thin pale lines and dark rec-
tangular spots. Length to at least 20 cm.

A
S. sp 2. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm. Adult

A B
S. diabola. Sanur Lagoon, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 16 cm. S. diabola. Mabul, Malaysia. Juv. 30 mm.

B C
S. sp 2. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 13 m. Length 2 cm. Tiny juvenile. S. sp 2. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 5 cm. Small juvenile.

Raggy Scorpionfish Scorpaenopsis venosa

Scorpaena venosa Cuvier, 1829. Red sea.

Widespread West Pacific. Adults are best recognised

by the tiny light-blue ocelli scattered over the body, and
dark triangle below eye. small juveniles have three dis-
tinctive white spots along the back as shown in C.
Coastal, often on sponges along reef edges to 30 m
depth. Length to 25 cm.

C D
S. diabola. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 18 cm. S. diabola. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 4 m. Length 18 cm. A
S. venosa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 16 cm.
Papua Scorpionfish Scorpaenopsis papuensis
Scorpaena papuensis Cuvier, 1829. New Guinea. B
Widespread West Pacific. Shallow coastal sand slopes, S. venosa. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Juve., 8 cm.
esuaries and lagoons, often in algae covered rubble zones.
Juveniles with large, forward pointing tentacles above the
eyes. Length to 22 cm.

C D
S. papuensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 12 cm. Alex STEFFE. S. venosa. Maumere, Flores. Length 20 cm. S. venosa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 24 cm.

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 Small-scale Scorpionfish Paper Scorpionfish Taenianotus triacanthus
Scorpaenopsis oxycephala Taenianotus triacanthus Lacepède, 1802. No locality.
Scorpaena oxycephala Bleeker, 1849. Java.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Unusual scorpionfish, and only one in
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Highly variable in colour. genus. Highly variable in colour in relation to habitat and some form of
Adults ‘bearded’ with numerous tassles. Juveniles slen- mimicry. May be found sitting openly on coral plates or algae-rock,
der with tall dorsal fin. Various reef habitats, coastal to sometimes in pairs. Often sways sideways like is is moved by a swell.
outer reefs. Length to 35 cm. Coastal to outer reef habitats, usually in depths over 6 m and reported
to 135 m. Length to 10 cm.

A
S. oxycephala. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 35 cm.

A
T. triacanthus. Menjangan Isl, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 10 cm.
B
S. oxycephala. Bali. Close-up, bearded adult.

B
T. triacanthus. Komodo. Depth 26 m. Alex STEFFE.

C D
S. oxycephala. North-west Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 35 cm. S. oxycephala. Mabul, Malaysia. Juvenile, ~10 cm.

Yellow-nose Scorpionfish
Scorpaenopsis novaeguinea
Scorpaena novaeguinea Cuvier, 1829. New Guinea.

West Pacific, Malaysia, Indoneisa and Papua New C

Guinea, probably widespread. Often confused with S. T. triacanthus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 10 cm.
cirrhosa from Japan. Boldly marked with pale rounded
blotches, and adult with yellow snout. Juveniles with
large tentacles above eyes. Clear coastal to outer reef
habitats. Length to 25 cm.
D
T. triacanthus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 10 cm.

A
S. novaeguinea. Menjangan, Bali. Depth 18 m. Length 25 cm.

B C E F
S. novaeguinea. North coast, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm. S. novaeguinea. Mabul, Malaysia. D. 8 m. L. cm. T. triacanthus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 10 cm. T. triacanthus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 10 cm.

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 Weedy Scorpionfish Rhinopias frondosa Ambon Scorpionfish
Scorpaena frondosa Günther, 1892. Mauritius. Pteroidichthys amboinensis
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Spordaric occurance. Rich Pteroidichthys amboinensis Bleeker, 1857. Ambon.
soft-bottom habitats in current prone channels. Highly West Pacific, from southern Japan to northern
variable in colour and in appendages in relation to habitat. Australia. Colour variably, matching environment
Covered with appendages on algae reefs, but plain when Lives primarily in algae or soft-bottom habitats and
deep with sponges. Length to 22 cm. has red, brown or green colours that relate to the
algae types found in the surrounding habitats.
Muddy estuaries to offshore soft-bottom sub-
strates. The pair was observed chasing and eating
sand-mysids at Gilimanuk, Bali. The two followed
each other around and crawled over the sandy
areas where mysids resting on the bottom were
gulped up as soon as they try to swim away.
Length to 12 cm. A
P. amboinensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm.

B
A R. frondosa. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 35 m.
R. frondosa. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 37 m. L. 15 cm. Taketomo SHIROTORI. Length 15 cm. Takahisa ICHIHARA.

B
P. amboinensis. Rinca I., Komodo. D. 18 m. L. 6 cm.

C D
P. amboinensis. C Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 12 cm. D Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 12 m. Length 8 cm.
C D
R. frondosa. Ambon. Depth 20 m. Length C 12 cm, Length D 20 cm. Roger C. STEENE.

Lacy Scorpionfish Rhinopias aphanes

Rhinopias aphanes Eschmeyer, 1973. New Caledonia.

Coral Sea and eastern New Guinea. Reported from

Indonesia, but most records doubtful and is probably
restricted to eastern Irian Jaya. On coral plates or soft-bot-
tom habitat. Length to 25 cm.

A B E
R. aphanes. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 12 m. Length 16 cm. R. aphanes. PNG. D. 10 m. L. 15 cm. Neville COLEMAN. P. amboinensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 12 cm.

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 CORAL CROUCHERS - CARACANTHIDAE Long-spined Waspfish Paracentropogon longispinis
Apistus longispinis Cuvier, 1829. Ambon.
A single genus family with 4 small and secretive species that live among branches of corals of Acropora and Poecillopora. Easily
mistaken for coral gobies, but they are related to scorpionfishes. West Pacific, Philippines to northern Australia but often wrongly
identified with different names, including for the genus. Highly vari-
able. Dark blotch in dorsal fin in males and white blotch on body
Spotted Croucher Caracanthus maculatus intermittent. Sheltered coastal lagoons and estuaries to deep off-
shore. Silty and muddy habitats. Length to 13 cm.
Micropus maculatus Gray, 1831. Polynesia.

Widespread West Pacific, southern Japan to northern Australia.

Shallow reef crests, usually exposed to moderate surge. Usually
wedged between branches at the base of the corals.
Length to about 5 cm.

A
P. longispinis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1 m. Length 12 cm.

C. maculatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 4 cm.

B C
P. longispinis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. P. longispinis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 10 m. L. 4 cm. Roger Steene.

WASPFISHES - TETRAROGIDAE
A moderately sized family of small and often little known fishes with about 15 genera and over 40 species. Few species are encoun-
tered by divers. Most live in coastal and muddy habitats and some enter estuaries. Closely related to scorpionfishes and some
species are thought to have venomous spines in the dorsalfin. They are distinguished from the scorpionfishes by having the dorsal
fin origin above the snout. Highly variable in colour to match the environment. Diet comprises small invertebrates such as mysids
and shrimps or small fishes, depending on the species.

Richardson’s Waspfish
Richardsonichthys leucogaster
Apistes leucogaster Richardson, 1848.
Sea of China. D E
P. longispinis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. P. longispinis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm.
West Pacific, originally described from
Queensland, ranging to Philippines and east
Indian Ocean. Sheltered sand habitats in
coastal bays and deep offshore.
Uncommon and mainly known from prawn
trawling grounds. Recognised by the large
rounded head and deeply incised mem-
branes of the spinous part of the dorsal fin.
Nocturnal, coming out on dusk, usually
buries itself in the sand during the day.
Length to 55 mm.

F
R. leucogaster. Lembeh Strait, northern Sulawesi. Depth 15 m. Length 55 mm. P. longispinis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm.

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 Spiny Leaf-fish Ablabys macracanthus VELVETFISHES - APLOACTINIDAE
Apistus macracanthus Bleeker, 1852. Ceram.
A family of small and mostly little known fishes in tropical waters. Members in cooler water grow much larger, reaching about 30
Widespread West Pacific. Reported from Indian cm, and are well known. Some 15 genera and about 50 species occur worldwide, but many of the small tropical species are unde-
Ocean where a third species A. binotatus is more scribed. They are benthic fishes that often partly bury themselves in the substrate and have excellent camouflage. Similar to wasp-
common and records from Indonesia need verifi- fishes but body covered with scales that formspiny points, giving it a furry look and velvet-like feel. Some species are venomous.
cation. Inshore, usually muddy-sand habitat, estu- Revision needed.
aries and coastal slopes. Has a more anteriorly
pointed dorsal fin and more rays in anal fin com-
pared to next species. Length to 20 cm. Kagoshima Velvetfish
Paraploactis kagoshimensis
Tetraroge kagoshimensis Ishikawa, 1904.
Kagoshima, Japan.

Known from southern Japan to northern

Indonesia. Secretive on algae rocky reefs, usu-
ally seen at night. Length to 12 cm.

B
A A. macracanthus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 20
A. macracanthus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 18 cm. mm. Miki TONOZUKA.

A B
P. kagoshimensis. Sangihe Islands. Depth 10 m. Length 6 cm.

Orange Velvetfish Paraploactis sp 1 Black Velvetfish Paraploactis sp 2

Undetermined species Undetermined species

C D
A. macracanthus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. C Lenght 12 cm. D Length 15 cm.

P. sp 1. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 19 m. Length 50 mm. P. sp 2. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 30 mm.
Cockatoo Leaf-fish Ablabys taenianotus
Apistus taenianotus Cuvier, 1829. Mauritius.
Pygmy Velvetfish Paraploactis sp 3 Short Velvetfish Erisphex sp 1
West Pacific from southern Japan to northern Undetermined species Undetermined species
Australia, ranging to subtropical zones. Sheltered
sand habitats and algae reef. Nocturnal, coming
out on dusk. Length to 15 cm.

A B
A. taenianotus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m m. Length 15 cm. A. taenianotus. Sydney, Australia. D. 5 m. L. 50 mm. P. sp 3. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 25 mm. E. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 mm.

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 FLATHEADS - PLATYCEPHALIDAE Smooth Flathead
Inegocia borboriensis
A large family, primary Indo-Pacific, with estimated 18 genera and 60 species. Most are restricted in mainland water where in muddy Platycephalus borboriensis Cuvier, 1829.
and sandy habitats. Few species are on or near reefs and seen by diving. Nearly all species bury themselves in the snad during the day Réunion, but uncertain locality.
and hunt at night for fishes and swimming invertebrates. They feature large, bony heads and some are greatly flattened from above.
West Pacific. Very similar to I. japonica and
regarded as a junior synonym by some
authors. Estuarine and muddy coastal bay
species. Buries itself in the sand during the
Crocodilefish Cymbacephalus beauforti day and out at night. Length to 35 cm.
Platycephalus beauforti Knapp, 1973. Palau.

Widespread West Pacific, southern Japan to south- A

ern Indonesia. Coastal to outer reefs from sheltered I. borboriensis. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 15 m. Length 10 cm.
sand-rubble zones to channels on reef crests with
moderate surge. Well camouflaged on reefs, but
probably the most obsrved species in the family by
divers. Small juveniles all black, gradually changing
to the blotched pattern of the adult. Length to 50 cm.

B
A I. borboriensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 30 cm.
C. beauforti. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 6 m. Length 50 cm.
Manado Flathead
Thysanophrys celebica
Platycephalus celebicus Bleeker, 1854.
Manado.

Widespread West Pacific. Rubble and sand

habitat, usually adjacent to reefs. Shallow to
about 20 m depth. Length to 20 cm.

B C
C. beauforti. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm. C. beauforti. Mabul, Malaysia. D. 6 m. L. 30 cm.

D B
C. beauforti. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm. T. celebica. A & B Kangean. Depth 10–13 m. Length 15 cm.

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 Indian Flathead Fringe-lip Flathead
Platycephalus indicus Thysanophrys otaitensis
Callionymus indicus Linnaeus, 1758. Cottus otaitensis Cuvier, 1829. Tahiti.
Asia.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Various
Wide spread Indian Ocean to West sand and mud habitats from estuaries to
Pacific. Sand and mud-habitats from deep offshore. Length to 30 cm.
shallow estuaries to deep offshore.
Identified by distinctive colour pattern
on the caudal fin: centrally yellow and
black stripes on upper and lower mar-
gins. Length to 45 cm.
P. indicus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 40 cm.

Banka Flathead
Papilloculiceps bosschei
A
Platycephalus bosschei Bleeker, 1860.
T. otaitensis. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 30 cm.
Banka.

West Pacific, Indonesia to northern

Australia. Found in sand patches or
channels between reefs, usually fine
light coloured sand, to about 10 m
depth. Length to 45 cm.

P. bosschei. Queensland, Australia. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm.

B C
T. otaitensis. Rinca I., Komodo. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm. T. otaitensis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 20 cm.
Horned Flathead
Euryplatycephalus carbunculus Malay Flathead
Platycephalus carbunculus Thysanophrys malayana
Valenciennes, 1833. Bombay, India. Platycephalus malayanus Bleeker,
1853. Padang, Sumatra.
West Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean.
Recognised by the long tentacles above West Pacific, Philippines to southern
the eyes and colouration of body and Indonesia. Shallow protected bays on
fins. Muddy substrates in estuaries to sand slopes. Quickly buries itself when
deep offshore. Length to 40 cm. disturbed. Length to 40 cm.

A T. malayana. Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 4 m. Length 40 cm.

White-speckled Flathead
Thysanophrys arenicola
Thysanophrys arenicola
Schultz, 1966. Rongelap Atoll,
West Pacific.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific.

Protected bays and deep water sand-
flats. Length to 25 cm.

B
E. carbunculus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 9 m. Length 35 cm. Close-up above. T. arenicola. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 40 cm.

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 Long-snout Flathead Thysanophrys chiltonae GROUPERS & ROCK CODS - EPINEPHELINAE (SERRANIDAE)
Platycephalus chiltonae Schultz, 1966.
Marshall Islands. One of the largest and important families on coral reefs, including many commercial species. as well as playing an important roll in
the ecosystem as predators. The family is divided in several subfamilies and encompasses over 300 species, depending on treat-
Widespread Indo-Pacific. Sheltered coastal sand
along reef margins. Mainly buries itself in coarse ment of taxonomic levels of some groups. There is disagreement amongst ichthyologist to the status of a number of groups such
sand and fine rubble. Usually in small groups. as basslets or soapfishes. This group comprises to larger species commonly encountered by divers and fisherman.
Length to 25 cm.

False Scorpionfish Centrogenys vaigiensis

Scorpaena vaigiensis Quoy & Gaimard, 1824.
A B Waigeo, Indonesia.
T. chiltonae. Maumere, Flores. A Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm. B Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm.
Widespread West Pacific. Secretive in shallow coastal coral reefs. Rest on
substrate and looks like scorpionfish. Length to 22 cm.
Dwarf Flathead Onigocia sp 1
Undetermined small species. Adult shown. Remarks: Some authors place this species in its own family CENTROGINIIDAE.
Small juveniles are completely black. Adults
have a broad black band behind the head on the
body. Length to about 60 mm.

A B
O. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 6 cm.

Midget Flathead Onigocia spinosa

Platycephalus spinosus Temminck & Schlegel,
1844. Nagasaki, Japan. A B
S. vaigiensis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 5 m. Length 14 cm. Roger Steene. S. vaigiensis. Singapore. Depth 7 m. Length 16 cm.
Widespread Indo-Pacific. Sheltered coastal sand
flats to at least 20 m depth. Nocturnal, buried in
the substrate during the day. Length to about 25
cm.

A B
O. spinosa. Maumere, Flores. A Depth 6 m. Length 5 cm. B Depth 10 m. Length 3 cm.

Red-banded Flathead
Onigocia oligolepis
Platycephalus oligolepis Regan, 1908.
Cargados Carajos, Indian Ocean.

Widespread Indo-Pacific. Coastal mud or sand

channels and slopes, in 5-30 m depth. Length to
10 cm.

C
O. oligolepis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm. S. vaigiensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 18 cm.

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 White-lined Grouper Long-spine Rock Cod Epinephelus longispinis
Anyperodon leucogrammicus Serranus longispinis Kner, 1864. Madras, India.
Serranus leucogrammicus Cuvier, 1828.
Indo-West Pacific. Coastal to outer reefs in algae and coral
Seychelles.
reefs. Similar to E. maculatus but fewer spots and posteri-
Widespread West Pacific. Coastal to outer reefs, or ones elongated. Length to 55 cm.
mainly with good coral or sponge growth.
Juveniles mimic some of the small lined wrass-
es of the genus Halichoeres or dark damsels in
surge zones. Length to 50 cm.

A B
E. longispinis. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 8 cm. E. longispinis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm.

A B
A. leucogrammicus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 9 cm. A. leucogrammicus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 10
Juvenile, mimic of the female or initial phase of Halichoeres melanurus. m. Length 4 cm. Juvenile, wrasse mimic.

C
E. longispinis. North-west coast, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 40 cm.

Marbled Rock Cod Epinephelus maculatus

Perca maculata Bloch, 1790. East Indies.

West Pacific, ranging to subtropical zones. Common

coastal species, usually along reef edges or with bommies
on sand. Small juveniles black with white blotches, becom-
C
ing more spotted with age. Length to 50 cm.
A. leucogrammicus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 40 cm.

Six-band Rock Cod

Epinephelus sexfasciatus
Serranus sexfasciatus Valenciennes, 1828.
Java.
B
Widespread West Pacific. Mud habitats at E. maculatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 35 cm.
moderate depths, usually in excess of 50 m.
Occasionally shallower in greatly protected A
inlets. Length to 40 cm. E. maculatus. Tulamben, Bali. D. 7 m. L. 5 cm.

A B C D
E. sexfasciatus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 25 m. Length 35 cm. E. sexfasciatus. Sulawesi. L. 10 cm. E. maculatus. Tulamben, Bali. D. 7 m. L. 5 cm. E. maculatus. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 22 m. Length 45 cm.

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 Bleeker’s Rock Cod Epinephelus bleekeri Malabar Grouper Epinephelus malabaricus
Serranus bleekeri Vailliant, 1878. Java. Holocentrus malabaricus Bloch & Schneider, 1801. India.

West Pacific. Recognised by the bluish lower half of the Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Usually inshore on rocky reefs,
caudal fin and the lack of spots there compared to the but in moderate depths to at least 60 m. Length to at least 1.5
upper half. Coastal bays and estuaries. Usually in depth less m.
than 10 m in protected bays, but also found deep offshore.
Length to 40 cm. B was witnessed grabbing a large porcupinefish. It took off with
it to very deep water and probably swollowed it after killing it.

A
E. malabaricus. Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 35 mm.

A
E. bleekeri. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length 12 cm.

B C B
E. bleekeri. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 30 cm. E. bleekeri. Maumere, Flores. D. 3 m. L. 6 cm. E. malabaricus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 1.4 m. (see text box)

Squaretail Rock Cod Epinephelus areolatus Four-saddle Grouper Epinephelus spilotoceps

Perca areolatus Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Epinephelus spilotoceps Schultz, 1953. Marshall Islands.

West Pacific. Coastal sand and mud slopes with rich invert- Widespread Indo-West Pacific, sporadic distribution, mainly
erbrate growth, usually deeper than 10 m. A small species, oceanic locations. Very similar to E. melanostigma but usually
length to about 30 cm. shows four black saddle-like spots along the back, but these
can be turned-off at will.
Roch and coral reefs to about 20 m depth. Length to 35 cm.

A
A B E. spilotoceps. Maldives. Depth 12 m. Length 25 cm.
E. areolatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm. E. areolatus. Maumere, Flores. D. 10 m. L. 6 cm.

Dusky Rock Cod Epinephelus bontoides

Serranus bontoides Bleeker, 1855. Ambon.

West Pacific. Shallow coastal mud or rocky reef zones.

Usually in less than 10 m depth. Length to 30 cm.

A B B
E. bontoides. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 30 cm. E. bontoides. Maumere, Flores. D. 6 m. L. 25 cm. E. spilotoceps. Seamount, off south coast, Java. Depth 25 m. Length 35 cm.

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 Brown-spotted Grouper Epinephelus coioides Long-finned Rock Cod
Bola? coioides Hamilton, 1822. India. Epinephelus quoyanus
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal bays and lagoons to Serranus quoyanus Valenciennes, 1830.
deep offshore, 1–100 m. Length to 1 m. New Guinea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Has long

pectoral fins, which it uses when perching
itself on the substrate, typically as shown in
the photograph. Usually found along reef
edges on sand or rubble to about 50 m
depth. Length to 40 cm.

A B
E. coioides. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm. E. coioides. Maumere, Flores. D. 3 m. L. 5 cm.

E. quoyanus. Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra. Depth 12 m. Length 35 cm.

Howland Island Rock Cod Epinephelus howlandi

Serranus howlandi Günther, 1873. Howland Is., central Pacific.

West Pacific from southern Japan to north-eastern Australia, but main-

ly oceanic locations and rare in Indonesia. Length to 55 cm.

C
E. coioides. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 8 m. Length 60 cm.

Black-spot Grouper Epinephelus melanostigma

Epinephelus melanostigma Schultz, 1953. Samoa Islands.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Shallow coastal reef crests

and walls to about 25 m depth. Appears to prefer rock-reef
with few corals or sponges. Identified by black spot but
this can be turned off at will as shown in the photographs.
Length to 35 cm.

A
E. melanostigma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 35 cm. E. howlandi. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 15 m. Length 55 cm.

Greasy Rock Cod Epinephelus tauvina

Perca tauvina Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Mainly

inshore, often muddy substrates to depths of
at least 50 m. Length to 75 cm.

B A B
E. melanostigma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 35 cm. E. tauvina. Sulawesi. D. 15 m. L. 25 cm. E. tauvina. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 50 cm.

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 Snubnose Rock Cod Small-spotted Rock Cod
Epinephelus macrospilos Epinephelus caeruleopunctatus
Serranus macrospilos Bleeker, 1855. Holocentrus caeruleopunctatus Bloch, 1790. No loc.
Batjan, Moluccas Is.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Adults coastal to outer reef
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but mainly walls in caves to at least 50 m depth, Juveniles inshore,
oceanic locations and not commonly observed. often in brackish lagoons or mangroves. Length to 60 cm.
Body and median fins with large dark blotches,
largest towards the tail. Rock and coral reefs
from 6 m down. Length to 50 cm.

A B
E. caeruleopunctatus. Flores. D. 2 m. L. 5 cm. E. caeruleopunctatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 45 cm.
A
E. macrospilos. Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra. Depth 12 m. Length 35 cm.

C
E. caeruleopunctatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length 25 cm.

White-speckled Rock Cod

Epinephelus ongus
Holocentrus ongus Bloch, 1790. Japan?
B Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Inner and outer coral reef
E. macrospilos. Seamount, off south coast, Java. Depth 24 m. Length 40 cm. habitats along walls. Adults usually in 20+ m depth. Length
to 35 cm.
Honeycomb Rock Cod
Epinephelus merra
Epinephelus merra Bloch, 1793.
Japan Sea?.
B
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Common on E. ongus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 30 cm.
shallow coastal to outer reef crests to 25 m
depth. Length to 28 cm.

A
E. ongus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 10 m. L. 12 cm.

A B C D
E. merra. Seamount, off south coast, Java. Depth 24 m. Length 40 cm. E. merra. Maumere, Flores. D. 3 m. L. 6 cm. E. ongus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. L. 5 cm. E. ongus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 35 cm.

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 Coral Rock Cod Epinephelus corallicola Giant Grouper Epinephelus lanceolatus
Serranus corallicola Bleeker, 1855. Batjan, Moluccas Is. Holocentrus lanceolatus Bloch, 1790.
East Indies.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific from southern Japan to
Australia and Fiji. Silty coastal reefs and lagoons and pro- Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Usually seen
tected bays. Shallow to about 30 m depth. Length to 50 cm. when large adults cruise along the base of
deep slopes or drop-offs, but occasionally
enters very shallow depths. Juveniles secre-
tive in reefs and rarely seen. Length to at least
2 m, reported to 3 m.

A
E. lanceolatus. Aquarium, Japan. Length ~60 cm. Semi-adult colouration.

A B
E. corallicola. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm. E. corallicola. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm.

Cloudy Rock Cod Epinephelus erythrurus

Serranus erythrurus Valenciennes, 1828. India.

Mainly Indian Ocean species that ranges into Indonesia

to Sulawesi and Java. Lives on muddy substrates and is
commonly trawled. Length to 45 cm.

B
E. erythrurus. Aquarium, Jakarta. Length 30 cm. E. lanceolatus. Aquarium, Sydney. Length ~2 m.

Wavy-lined Rock Cod Epinephelus undulosus Potato Cod Epinephelus tukula

Bodianus undulosus Quoy & Gaimard, 1824. Waigeo. Epinephelus tukula Morgans, 1959. Tanzania.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Lives on muddy open Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Mainly found in deep reef channels and
substrate, seeking refuge in holes in the mud or with seamounts, in current prone areas. Length to 2 m.
solid structures, shipwrecks or debris deposited in the
wet season from rivers. A flighty species. Usually in
depths of 15+ m. Length to 50 cm.

A
E. undulosus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm.

B C
E. undulosus. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 16 m. Length 35 cm. E. undulosus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 10 cm. E. tukula. Nusa Penida, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 1.4 m.

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 Flower Cod Epinephelus fuscoguttatus Flat-tail Cod
Bodianus fuscoguttatus Forsskål, 1775. Epinephelus waandersii
Red Sea. Serranus waandersii
Bleeker, 1858. Bali.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Juveniles in shallow
coastal waters, including mangroves and enters A little known species that Bleeker
brackish zones. Large adults in deep coastal waters described from a sub-adult, only known
and along outer reef drop-offs where in large caves. from the north coast of Bali. It is very
Mainly active at dusk. Attains 90 cm. similar to E. chlorostigma from the
Seychelles. Large adult shown, length
at least to 1 m.
A
E. fuscoguttatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 20 cm.

E. waandersii. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 40 m. Length 1 m.

Yellowfin Grouper
Epinephelus flavocaeruleus
Serranus flavocaeruleus Lacepède, 1801.Mauritius.

Indian Ocean species that ranges east to Bali. Adults

have yellow fins. Small juveniles about half blue, half yel-
low, and found mainly inshore. Adults rarely seen, usual-
ly living on deep reefs to 150 m depth. Length 75 cm.

A
E. flavocaeruleus. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm.
B
E. fuscoguttatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 85 cm.

Snout-spots Rock Cod

Epinephelus polyphekadion
Serranus polyphekadion Bleeker, !849. Java.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Mainly inner and

outer reefs where in caves and large crevices to
swim through. Usually in excess of 10 m depth.
Length to 75 cm.

C Showing snout-spots.
B C
E. flavocaeruleus. Pulau Weh, Sumatra. D. 12 m. L. 6 cm. E. flavocaeruleus. Pulau Weh, Sumatra. Depth 12 m. Length 20 cm.

Purple Rock Cod Epinephelus cyanopodus

A Serranus cyanopodus Richardson, 1846. China.
E. polyphekadion. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 65 cm.
Widespread West Pacific, replacing above species from
Bali westwards. Adults mainly grey, lack yellow fins and
have numerous tiny dark spots all over. Juveniles
inshore, adults rarely seen and occur mainly on deep
reefs and in shipwrecks. Length to 75 cm.

B C A B
E. polyphekadion. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm. Juvenile stage. E. polyphekadion. Sangihe Islands. D. 20 m. L. 40 cm. E. cyanopodus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 16 cm. E. cyanopodus. Qld, Australia. Depth 5 m. Length 30 cm.

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 Banded Rock Cod Epinephelus fasciatus Barramundi Cod Cromileptes altivelis
Perca fasciata Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Serranus altivelis Valenciennes, 1828. Java.

Widespread and common throughout the Indo-West Pacific, but Widespread throughout the Indo-West Pacific. Small juveniles
some geographical variations. Coastal reef slopes to outer reef walls inshore on reefs and in lagoons. Adults usually along bases of
from 6 to very deep water. Length to 35 cm. reefs at moderate depths in 30+ m. Length to 65 cm.

B
E. fasciatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm.

A B
C. altivelis. Tulamben, Bali. D. 20 m. L. 6 cm. C. altivelis. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 30 m. L. 60 cm.

A C
E. fasciatus. Sunda Strait, Java. Depth 15 m. Length 30 cm. E. fasciatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 35 cm.

D C
E. fasciatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 35 cm. C. altivelis. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 40 cm.

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 Red-flushed Cod Aethaloperca rogaa
Perca rogaa Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal reefs and

lagoons, often silty habitat. Shallow to moderate
depths. Juveniles mimic Centropyge vrolikii (B) and C.
nox until they outgrow their model in size. Length to
60 cm.

A B
A. rogaa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 50 cm. A. rogaa. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 10 cm. C
G. albomarginatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 40 cm.

Harlequin Cod Cephalopholis polleni

Epinephelus polleni Bleeker, 1868. Réunion.

Widespread Indo-West, but sporadic distribution.

Primarily in rich invertebrate caves along clear
water drop-offs between 10 and 70 m. Length to
35 cm

A B
C. polleni. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. A Length 10 cm. B Length 7 cm.

C
A. rogaa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 55 cm.

White-square Cod Gracilla albomarginata

Cephalopholis albomarginatus Fowler & Bean, 1930.
Near Borneo.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific from east Africa to

central Pacific. Usually seen swimming along outer
reef walls in 10 to 70 m depth. Readily identified by
the white square on their sides, blue in natural light.
Length to 40 cm.

A B C
G. albomarginatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm. G. albomarginatus. Iriomote, Japan. D. 30 m. L. 15 cm. C. polleni. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 35 cm.

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 Dusky-banded Cod Cephalopholis boenak Blue-spotted Rock Cod
Bodianus boenak Bloch, 1790. Japan. Cephalopholis cyanostigma
Serranus cyanostigma Valenciennes,
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Brownish to greenish grey
1828. Java.
with dusky vertical bands over the body. White margins
and black sub-margins on the median fins. Mainly a Widespread West Pacific. B is the juvenile phase
coastal species, protected and often silty reefs to about 20 that was once known as a separate species, C.
m depth. Length to 30 cm. xanthura. At this stage it begins to change to the
adult pattern that appears to happen quickly.
Coastal reefs and lagoons with rich coral growth
Length to 40 cm.

A
C. cyanostigma. Maumere, Flores. Depth 8 m. Length 30 cm.
A
C. boenak. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 30 cm.

B C
C. boenak. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm. C. boenak. Menjangan Island, Bali. D. 10 m. L. 8 cm.
B
C. cyanostigma. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm.
Blue-finned Rock Cod Cephalopholis microprion
Serranus microprion Bleeker, 1852. Ambon & Jakarta.
Peacock Rock Cod Cephalopholis argus
Widespread West Pacific from southern Japan to north-
ern Australia and west to Andaman Sea. Rich coastal Cephalopholis argus Bloch & Schneider, 1801.
reefs, secretive in corals, to about 20 m depth. Juveniles East Indies.
under corals with rubble substrate. Length to 25 cm. Widespread Ind0-West Pacific. Coastal to shel-
tered outer reef habitatss and lagoons with rich
coral growth Easily identified by the distinctive
colour patterns. Length to 45 cm.

A
C. microprion. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 30 cm. A
C. argus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 45 cm.

B C B C
C. microprion. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 30 cm. C. microprion. Pulau Putri, Java. D. 6 m. L. 5 cm. C. argus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 35 cm.

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 Flag-tail Rock Cod Blue-lined Rock Cod Cephalopholis formosa
Cephalopholis urodeta Sciaena formosa Shaw & Nodder, 1812. India.
Percam urodetam Fprster, 1801.
Marquesas. Mainland Asia ranging to India in the west and Taiwan
and Sulawesi in the east. Coastal, often silty reefs in the
Widespread West Pacific from southern vicinity of river mouths. Length to 35 cm.
Japan to northern Australia and west to
Christmas Island, Indian Ocean.
Replaced by next species from Java
westwards. Coastal to outer reef, com-
monly seen on shallow coral reef flats
with large stony species. To depths of
about 40 m. Length to 27 cm.

A B
C. formosa. Aquarium, Jakarta. Length 30 cm.

A Leopard Rock Cod Cephalopholis leoparda

C. urodeta. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm. Labrus leoparda Lacepède, 1801. Indian Ocean.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal reefs with rich

coral and sponge growth, usually in less than 6 m depth.
Small species, length to 20 cm.

A B
C. leoparda. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length 14 cm. C. leoparda. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 30 cm.

Orange Rock Cod Cephalopholis spiloparae

Serranus spiloparaeus Valenciennes, 1828.
Probably Indian Ocean.

Widespread West Pacific. Similar to the more common

Cephalopholis leoparda but lacks banding in the caudal
fin and dark peduncular saddle-spot. Coastal and outer
reef drop-offs, often in caves with rich coral growth, to
B 40 m depth. Length to 30 cm.
C. urodeta. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 26 cm.

Black-finange Rock Cod

Cephalopholis nigripinnis
Serranus nigripinnis Valenciennes, C. spiloparae. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 30 cm.
1828. Probably Indian Ocean.
Rusty Rock Cod Cephalopholis aitha
Widespread Indian Ocean, ranging east
Cephalopholis aitha Randall & Heemstra, 1991.
to Java. In Java on rock walls to at least
Madang, PNG.
35 m depth. Indian Ocean sibling of
Cephalopholis urodeta. Both species West Pacific, known from Indonesia to Philippines and
occur in Java and Christmas Island, Papua New Guinea. Similar to the more common
Indian Ocean. C. nigripinnis lacks the Cephalopholis spiloparaea (species above) but lacks
typical stripes in the tail of C. urodeta banding in the caudal fin. Protected coastal reef slopes
and it has dark pectoral fins. Length to with rich coral growth, to about 30 m depth. Length to
about 25 cm. about 25 cm.

C. nigripinnis. South coast, Java. Depth 20 m. Length 22 cm. C. aitha. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 16 cm.

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 Tomato Rock Cod Cephalopholis sonnerati Coral Rock Cod
Serranus sonnerati Valenciennes, 1828. India. Cephalopholis miniata
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal reef slopes. Perca miniata Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
Adults usually at moderate depths with bommies Widespread Indo-West Pacific. A common
with large holes, usually occupied by cleaner reefs species, sometimes in small loose
shrimps. Juveniles at various depths. Reported to aggregations on shallow reef crests with
100 m. Length to 50 cm. large corals and sponges, ranging to deep
along walls. Length to 40 cm.

A
C. miniata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm.
A
C. sonnerati. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 40 cm.

B
D C. miniata. Flores. D. 10 m. L. 6 cm.

B
C. sonnerati. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 12 cm.
C D E
C. miniata. Tulamben, Bali. D. 8 m. L. 25 cm. C. miniata. Tulamben. D. 8 m. L. 25 cm. C. miniata. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 40 cm.

Saddled Rock Cod

Cephalopholis sexmaculata
Serranus sexmaculatus Rüppell, 1830
Mauritius.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Rich

coastal to outer reefs, usually along deep
walls with caves, rich with invertebrate
E growth such as large sponges or soft
C C. sonnerati. Tulamben, Bali. Aduts in corals. Length to 45 cm.
C. sonnerati. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 6 cm. cleaner-shrimp stations. D at 25 m, E at 7 m.

A
C. sexmaculata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 40 cm.

F B
C. sonnerati. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 35 cm. C. sexmaculata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 45 cm.

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 Leopard Coral Trout Violet Coral Trout Plectropomus pessuliferus
Plectropomus leopardus Plectropoma pessuliferum Fowler, 1904. Pandang, Sumatra.
Holocentrus leopardus Lacepède, 1802. No locality.
Indian ocean to Fiji, sporadic distribution. Deep outer reefs.
Widespread West Pacific from southern Japan to Length to 75 cm.
northern Australia. Coastal reefs and large lagoons to
drop-offs of outer reefs, but most common on shel-
tered inner reefs where locally abundant. An impor-
tant food fish in some areas. Length to 70 cm.

A
P. leopardus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 12 m. Length 40 cm.

C. pessuliferum. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 27 m. Length 75 cm.

Vermicular Trout
Plectropomus oligacanthus
Plectropoma oligacanthus Bleeker, 1854. Ambon.

B West Pacific, Indonesia to northern Australia and

P. leopardus. Pulau Putri, Java. Aquarium. Length 40 cm. Solomon Islands. Coastal to outer reef slopes and
walls with rich coral growth. Length to 70 cm.
Spotted Coral Trout
Plectropomus maculatus
Bodianus maculatus Bloch, 1790. Japan (=Java?).

West Pacific from northern Australia to Thailand and

north to the Philippines. Protected coastal reef in
mixed algae and coral habitat, usuallt in depths
between 6-10 m but reported to 40 m depth. Length
to 65 cm.

A
A P. oligacanthus. Pulau Putri, Java. D. 10 m. L. 10 cm. B
P. maculatus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm. Juvenile, a mimic of the wrasse Cheilinus celebicus. P. oligacanthus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm.

B C
P. maculatus. Pulau Putri, Java. Aquarium. Length 65 cm. P. oligacanthus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 60 cm.

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 Footballer Cod Plectropomus laevis Square-tail Coral Trout
Labrus laevis Lacepède, 1801. Plectropomus areolatus
Probably Indian Ocean. Plectropoma areolatum Rüppell, 1830.
Red Sea.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Rich coastal to
outer reef habitats to at least 40 m depth. Small Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Recognised by
juveniles are very similar to the poisonous the shape of the caudal fin that has an almost
Saddled Pufferfish Canthigaster valentini and straight end. Coastal reefs and large lagoons
gain some freedom from predation. Length to at with sheltered narrow bays and low coral walls.
least 1 m. Often a shy fish. Length to 55 cm.

A
P. areolatus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 7 m. Length 40 cm.

A
P. laevis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.

B
P. areolatus. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 55 cm.

Lyre-tail Cod
Variola albimarginata
Variola albimarginata Baissas, 1952.
Mauritius.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Rich coastal to

outer reef habitats to at least 40 m depth.
B Juveniles inshore on algae and soft coral reefs,
P. laevis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm. usually swimming well above the substrate,
looking much like a basslet. Length to 65 cm.
A
V. albimarginata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 11 cm.

C B
P. laevis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 80 cm. V. albimarginata. Menjangan Island, Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 60 cm.

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 Common Lyre-tail Cod BASSLETS - ANTHIINAE (SERRANIDAE)
Variola louti
Perca louti Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
A large group of colourful fishes that are presently included as a subfamily with the groupers and rock cods. Most are planktivores
and may form large schools when feeding above reefs. Males are typically more colourful than females, but are often outnumbered,
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Mainly coastal and derive from the females by changing sex. Few species are benthic feeders and live secretively on reefs. The group is globally
and inner reefs. Large adults on deep slopes and represented with some species living in subtropical regions that grow much largr than the tropical species included here. Most trop-
outer reef walls, often in small aggregations. ical basslets range between 10 and 20 cm in maximum length.
Small juveniles on rubble slopes, swimming
amongst small boulders and are conspicuous by
the whitel line over the snout. Length to 80 cm. Lori’s Basslet Pseudanthias lori
Anthias lori Lubbock & Randall, 1976.
Loyalty Is.
Widespread West Pacific. Young and females with
series of red blotches over the back below the soft
part of the dorsal fin, followed by a red streak onto
the tail. Usually found along clear water drop-off
with moderate currents in depths from about 10 to
A 50 m. Length to 90 mm.
V. louti. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 45 mm.

A
P. lori. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 6 cm.

B C
P. lori. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Male, length 9 cm. P. lori. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 9 cm.

Red-saddled Basslet
Pseudanthias flavoguttatus
Anthias (Mirolabrichthys) flavoguttatus
Katayama & Masuda, 1980. Japan.
B
V. louti. Maumere, Flores. Depth 7 m. Length 40 cm.
Restricted distribution from subtropical
Japan, Philippines and along Wallis Line to
Bali. Similar to P. lori, but saddles more pro-
nounced and along entire dorsal fin to base of
caudal fin. Usually in deep water, from 30+ m.
Length to 10 cm.

All photographs by Akira OGAWA. A

P. flavoguttatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 50 m. Length 25 mm.

C B C
V. louti. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 75 cm. P. flavoguttatus. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 50 m. L. 25 mm. P. flavoguttatus. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 50 m. L. 25 mm.

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 Scribbled Basslet Pseudanthias smithvanizi Purple Queen Pseudanthias tuka
Anthias (Mirolabrichthys) smithvanizi Anthias lori Lubbock & Randall, 1976.
Randall & Lubbock, 1981. Solomon Is. Loyalty Is.

West Pacific. Appears more blue underwater and recog- West Pacific. Large adult male bright
nised by the yellow scribbles along the body. Along clear purple, but look blue underwater.
water drop-off with moderate currents in depths from Females with yellow back that contin-
about 10 to 50 m. Length to 90 mm. ues to the end of the caudal fin and
lower part of that fin with a similar yel-
low streak. Schools along the top of
outer reef edges. Length to 11 cm.

A
P. smithvanizi. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 9 cm. Deformed, ‘double’ caudal fin.

A
P. tuka. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Male, length 11 cm.

B C
P. tuka. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Juveniles, length 5 cm. P. tuka. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Female, length 8 cm.

Yellow-backed Basslet Pseudanthias bicolor

Anthias (Mirolabrichthys) bicolor Randall, 1979. Hawaiian
Islands.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Deep coastal to outer reef

slopes. Usually in small groups with remote bommies in cur-
rent prone areas. Male has two yellow-tipped filaments heading
the dorsal fin that are used for display. Length to 13 cm, but in
Indonesia usually to 11 cm.
B
P. smithvanizi. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 7-9 cm, male largest.

Sailfin Basslet Pseudanthias pascalus

Entonanthias pascalus Jordan & Tanaka, 1927. Japan.
A
Southern Japan to north-eastern Australia. In Indonesia P. bicolor. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Females, length 55 mm.
only known from Sangihi Isl and northern Sulawesi.
Usually in depths of 10-25 m. Length to 20 cm, including
the long filaments.

A B B C
P. pascalus. Kerama, Japan. Depth 15 m. Length 18 cm. P. pascalus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m Length ~4 cm. P. bicolor. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Male, length 11 cm. P. bicolor. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Male, length 11 cm.

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 Fairy Basslet Pseudanthias dispar Flame Basslet Pseudanthias ignitis
Mirolabrichthys dispar Herre, 1955. Solomon Is. Anthias (Mirolabrichthys) ignitis
Randall & Lubbock, 1981. Maldives.
West Pacific. Male displays a bright red dorsla fin. Ventral
fins greatly extended. Female orange with yellowish tail Indian Ocean, ranging east to southern Sumatra.
and a pink line from the tip of the snout angling down, Replaced further east by its sibling P. dispar that
passing through the lower part of the eye. Usually found occupies the same shallow habitat along reef
along clear water drop-off with moderate currents in edges. Recognised by the red caudal fin and red
depths from about 6-10 m. Often in large schools of spot at base of pectoral fin. Length to 90 mm.
mixed sexes when feeding in currents sweeping the reef.
Length to 90 mm.

P. ignitis. Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra. Depth 10 m. Male, length 9 cm.

A
P. dispar. East coast, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 9 cm.
Yellow-tail Basslet Pseudanthias evansi
Anthias evansi Smith, 1954. Kenya.

Widespread Indian Ocean, ranging east to

Sumatra. Schooling species along upper parts of
drop-offs and in outer reef lagoons. Feeds at vari-
ous depths to near surface in pursuit of zooplank-
ton. Readily identified by the blue and yellow
colouration. Length to 12 cm.

P. evansi. Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra. Depth 10 m. Male, length 9 cm.

Short-snout Basslet
Pseudanthias parvirostris
Anthias (Mirolabrichthys) parvirostris
Randall & Lubbock, 1981. Solomon Is.
B C
P. dispar. East coast, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 9 cm. Same individual, C jawning. Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but rarely seen
because of small size and deepwater habitat.
Usually in depths over 40 m and more common in
50–60 m range where it forms small groups that
swim close to the substrate. Known from the Bali
region in Indonesia. Length to about 75 mm.

A
P. parvirostris. Maldives. Depth 42 m. Male, length 45 mm.

D B C
P. dispar. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length ~9 cm. P. parvirostris. Rowley Shoals, WA. Depth 57 m. Lengths 40 & 50 mm. P. parvirostris. Nusa Penida. Depth 28 m. Length 6 cm.

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 Orange Basslet Pseudanthias squamipinnis Pink Basslet Pseudanthias hypselosoma
Serranus (Anthias) squamipinnis Peters, 1855. Mozambique. Pseudanthias hypselosoma Bleeker, 1877. New Guinea.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but several geographical variations Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Plain pink but males display with
or colourforms that are probably subspecific. Indonesian form intense colours (A). Coastal to outer reefs in depths from 6 m
ranges north to southern Japan. Shallow coastal to outer reef habi- down to moderate depths. Often forms large schools above
tats at all diveble depths. Length to about 10 cm (Indonesia). remote coral heads. Length to 12 cm.

A
P. hypselosoma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Males, length 11 cm.
A B
P. squamipinnis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 4 m. Male, length 10 cm. P. squamipinnis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 4 m. Length 6 cm.

B C
P. hypselosoma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. B Male, length 11 cm. C Female, length 6 cm.

Pacific Basslet Pseudanthias huchtii

Pseudanthias huchtii Bleeker, 1857. Ambon.

Widespread West Pacific, some geographical variations. Coastal

coral reefs and lagoons on outer reefs. Usually schooling on reef
crests in 3-20 m depth. Length to 11 cm.

C
P. squamipinnis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 4 m. Schooling with other species.

Red Basslet Pseudanthias cooperi

Anthias cooperi Regan, 1902. Maldives.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Forms small schools at moderate

depths. Mostly found on open substrate with low reef and remote
bommies in depths over 20 m. Juvenile maybe shallow in coastal A
reefs. Length to 12 cm. P. huchtii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Males, length 11 cm.

A B B C
P. cooperi. Pulau Weh, Sumatra. Depth 28 m. Male, length 10 cm. P. cooperi. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 6 cm. P. huchtii. Sangihe I. Depth 6 m. Male, length 9 cm. P. huchtii. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Female, length 85 mm.

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 Two-spot Basslet Pseudanthias bimaculatus Mirror Basslet Pseudanthias pleurotaenia
Anthias bimaculatus Smith 1955. Mozambique. Anthias pleurotaenia Bleeker, 1857. Ambon.
Widespread Indian Ocean, ranging east to at least Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal to outer reefs in depths
Bali. Highly variable species, displaying different or from 6 m down to moderate depths, usually in about 25 m depth.
stronger colour patterns when living together with Forms small schools, sometimes females and males in separate
similar looking species to enhance recognition by aggregations or mixed sexes. Coastal and outer reefs along walls.
females. This may lead to further speciation. Closely Hightly variable in colour and also in the size of the pale blotch
related species such as P. pleurotaenia and P. bimac- (looks blue in natural light). Latter varied from being totally absent
ulatus may spawn at the same time and produce acci- to an area almost half the body size, especially when showing nup-
dental hybrids. Coastal to outer reefs along the base tial colours. This seems to be in relation to the presents of other
of drop-offs in 10 to 60 m depth. Length to 14 cm. species living on the same reefs, or the density of populations. At
the Rowley Shoals, off the north-western Australian coast, it only
shows the blotch when nuptial. Length to 16 cm.
A
P. bimaculatus. South coast Java. Depth 35 m. Male, length 12 cm.

B C
P. bimaculatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 45 m. Female, length 9 cm. P. bimaculatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 45 m. Male, length 14 cm.

A B
P. pleurotaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Males, length ~15 cm. Small and large blotch variations.

D E
P. bimaculatus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m.Male, length 14 cm. P. bimaculatus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Female, length 9 cm.

D
P. pleurotaenia. Sipadan. Depth 25 m. Male, ~16 cm. No blotch.

F C E
P. bimaculatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Female, centre, swimming with females P. pleurotaenia, a closely related species. P. pleurotaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Male, ~15 cm. P. pleurotaenia. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Female, ~145 cm.

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 Flores Basslet Pseudanthias sp 1 Four-spot Basslet Pseudanthias hutomoi
Anthias hutomoi Allen & Burhanuddin, 1976. Maluku Isl.
Undetermined species, similar to P. bimaculatus. Known
from Flores and Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea. Coastal reef West Pacific from southern Indonesia to Philippines. A deep
slopes and with remote coral patches on deep open sand water species, forming small aggregations with large coral
flats to at least 50 m depth. heads at the base of deep slopes in current-prone areas. Usually
in depths of 40+ m depth, but some were filmed on Video off
Solor in 20 m depth. Length to 12 cm.

A
P. hutomoi. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 40 m. Male, length 12 cm.

A B
P. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. A Male, length 14 cm. B Female, length 14 cm.

Luzon Basslet Pseudanthias luzonensis

Anthias (Pseudanthias) luzonensis Katayama & Masuda,
1983. Philippines.
B C
West Pacific, southern Japan to northern Australia. Inshore
P. hutomoi. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 60 m. L. 65 mm. Akira OGAWA. P. hutomoi. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 40 m. Female, length 11 cm.
reef on rich coral slopes, usually in 20+ m depth. Length to
about 14 cm.
Nusa Penida Basslet Pseudanthias cichlops
Serranus cichlops Bleeker, 1853. Sumatra.

Widespread Indonesia and probably ranges throughout the

tropical western Pacific. A deep water species, usually in depths
over 40 m and appears to occur primarily on current-prone sof-
A bottom slopes. Highly variable in colour. Females have an
orange to red spot on the back, centrally at the base of the spin-
P. luzonensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Male, length 14 cm.
ous dorsal-fin, that elongates in larger individuals and males. In
some males it shows as a yellow bar and some large individu-
als have extended tips on the caudal fin. A
P. cichlops. Male. Nusa Penida, Bali. Depth 40 m. Length c. 12 cm. Akira Ogawa.

B C B C
P. luzonensis. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 45 m. Male, length 14 cm. P. luzonensis. Maumere, Flores. D. 30 m. Female, length 12 cm. P. cichlops. Large male. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 40 m. Length 14 cm. Gary Bell.

D E D E
P. luzonensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Male, length 12 cm. P. luzonensis. Padangbai, Bali. D. 25 m. L. 65 mm. P. cichlops. D female. E male. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 40 m. Length 12 cm. Gary Bell.

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 Red-stripe Basslet Pseudanthias fasciatus Red-band Basslet
Franzia fasciata Kamohara, 1954. Japan. Pseudanthias rubrizonatus
Anthias rubrizonatus Randall, 1983. Solomon I.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Only shallow in few
places, usually in 30-80 m depth and occurs throughout Widespread West Pacific, ranging to sub-tropical
Indonesia. Rocky reefs, often with large caves or over- zones. Sporadic distribution. Usually in small aggre-
hangs where swimming upside-down on ceilings. Length gations in deep current channels with remote coral
to 20 cm. heads. Juveniles enter harbours and often on silty
rocky reefs. Juveniles recognised by lavender tipped
dorsal spines. Length to 12 cm.

A B A
P. fasciatus. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 25 m. A Male, length 16 cm. B Juvenile, length 6 cm. P. rubrizonatus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 30 m. Male, length 14 cm.

Resplendent Basslet Pseudanthias randalli

Anthias randalli Lubbock & Allen, 1978.
Philippines.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Males red with blue.

Females with yellow snout. As ‘pulcherrimus’ in
Maldives. Coastal to outer reef walls. Usually very to at
leats 70 m depth, but occasionally as shallow as 10 m.
Length to 7 cm.

B C
P. rubrizonatus. Sydney Harbour. Juv. 40 mm. P. rubrizonatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Male, length 12 cm.

A
P. randalli. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Male, length 75 mm. Swallow-tail Basslet
Serranocirrhitus latus
Serranocirrhitus latus Watanabe, 1949. Japan.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Clear-water drop-

offs, usually in caves and sometimes swimming
upside down. A solitairy species, sometimes in
loose aggregations. Length to 8 cm.

B C A B
P. randalli. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. B Male, length 65 mm. C Female, length 6 cm. S. latus. Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 5 cm. S. latus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 5 cm.

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 Purple Pygmy Basslet Longfin Perchlet Plectranthias longimanus
Luzonichthys waitei Pteranthias longimanus Weber, 1913. East Indies.
Mirolabrichthys waitei Fowler, 1931.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Secretive amongst
Philippines.
small boulders or bommies on coastal sand slopes
Indo-West Pacific. Looks blue with dark yel- with rich invertebrate and algae growth. In depths
low over the back when seen in natural light. from about 6 to at least 75 m. Length to 35 mm.
Unlike most other basslets, the dorsal fins
are in two parts. Schools along upper part of
drop-offs on outer reefs to about 20 m depth.
Length to 50 mm.

A B
L. waitei. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Male, length 40 mm. P. longimanus. Tulamben, Bali. A Depth 25 m, B Depth 10 m. Length 35 mm.

Orange-striped Pygmy Basslet Red-blotched Perchlet Plectranthias inermis

Luzonichthys taeniatus Plectranthias inermis Randall, 1980. Philippines.
Luzonichthys taeniatus
Randall & McCosker, 1993. Indonesia. West Pacific. Although widespread, it is rarely
observed by divers because of its depth preference.
West Pacific. Red with orange bands along In addition the bright red colours in the photographs
the back. Two dark areas on caudal peduncle show as dark grey to almost black in natural light
that show as black spots underwater. In small available in deep water. Deep coastal and inner reef
schools along base of deep drop-offs from drop-offs from 30+ m. Length to about 40 mm.
30+ m. Length to 40 mm.

A
P. inermis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 35 mm.

A
L. taeniatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Male, length 35 mm.

B B
L. taeniatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Schooling, length 35 mm. P. inermis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 52 m. Length 40 mm.

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 SOAPFISHES - GRAMMISTIDAE Spotted Soapfish
Pogonoperca punctata
A small group of fishes that have a slimy skin that contains a toxin to deter predators. Closely related to the family Serranidae and Grammistes punctatus Valenciennes, 1830.
sometimes included as a subfamily. The group itself is highly diverse and the different genera are usually treated as separate tribes South-west Pacific.
that is a level not quite as high as subfamily status. The toxin is released under stress and may kill the fish and others if collected Widespread West Pacific, ranging to
and confined in a small amount of water. The brightly coloured Yellow Emperor swims about openly, but other species are secre- Christmas Island, Indian Ocean. Postlarvae
tive, especially the small Reef Basslets that are rarely seen. black with large white spots (B), the spots
remaining part of the adult pattern, but
become obscured with additional small
white spots in the greay areas. The fins
Lined Soapfish Grammistes sexlineatus remain clear and is an easy way to distin-
Perca sexlineata Thunberg, 1792. Japan or East Indies. guish it from its Indian Ocean sibbling, next
species. Sporadic distribution and habitat
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Juveniles secretive on specific, preferring large coral heads on
shallow coastal reefs, usually seen in crevices. Large slopes prone to moderate currents. Adults
adults live in deep water and are rarely seen. Small juve- usually in 20+ m depth. Juveniles in shallow
niles (D) have only two white stripes, dividing with lagoons or protected bays. Length to 34 cm. A
P. punctata. Sangihe Islands. Depth 20 m. Male, length 16 cm.
growth into numerous lines. The lines break-up into
dashes and spots when adult (C). Length to 27 cm.

A
G. sexlineatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm.

B
P. punctata. Mabul, Malaysia. C
Depth 5 m. Length 20 mm. P. punctata. Sangihe Islands. Depth 20 m. Male, length 18 cm.

Snowflake Soapfish Pogonoperca ocellata

C Pogonoperca ocellata Günther, 1859. Mauritius.
G. sexlineatus. Lizard I, Qld. D. 3 m. L. 15 mm. Widespread Indian Ocean, ranging east to Sumatra and southern Java. Replaced
in Bali by its Pacific sibling (above). Adults have white spots all over that are close-
set and form reticulated patterns, including on the median fins. The first dorsal fin
is pale yellow in adults. Deep water coral heads and rocky reefs, over 25 m. Length
to 27 cm.
B
G. sexlineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 10 cm.

D E A B
G. sexlineatus. Aquarium, Sydney. Length 25 cm. Adult pattern. G. sexlineatus. Mabul, Malaysia. D. 5 m. L. 16 cm. P. ocellata. Pulau Weh, north Sumatra. Depth 28 m. Length 25 cm.

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 Yellow Emperor Diploprion bifasciatum Arrow-head Soapfish
Diploprion bifasciatum Cuvier, 1828. Java. Belonoperca chabanaudi
Belonoperca chabanaudi Fowler & Bean,
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Normally yellow, but
1930. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi.
sometimes nearly all black and juveniles take-on colours
of the local venomous Meiacanthus blennies that are yel- Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Dusky bluish grey
low or grey. Mainly coastal habitats in semi-silty condi- to almost black appearance, but usually show a
tions, but also protected outer reef waters such as deep bright yellow saddle-mark on top of the caudal
lagoons, where with remote bommies. A predator that peduncle. Usually seen in dark caves along outer
feeds on surprisingly large prey, swallowed whole through reef walls. Easily missed and normally the yellow
its expandable jaws. Length to about 25 cm. spot is noticed first. Length to 15 cm.

A
D. bifasciatum. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm.

B. chabanaudi. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 15 cm.

Bold-spot Soapfish
Pseudogramma polyacantha
Pseudochromis polyacanthus Bleeker, 1856.
Ternate.

Widespread Indo-West pacific. Secretive in rubble

patches on reef-crests and in lagoons . Under dead
coral pieces but quickly sneaks away when looking
underneath. Length to 86 mm.
B C
D. bifasciatum. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 15 cm. D. bifasciatum. Pulau Putri, Java. D. 5 m. Length 45 mm.

Orange-lined Reef Basslet

Liopropoma swalesi
Chorististium swalesi Fowler & Bean, 1930. P. polyacantha. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 60 mm.
Togian Isl, Sulawesi.

West Pacific. Known from a few specimens from

Indonesian waters. Readily identified by the orange
stripes and the white-edged black ocelli in the second
CONGER BLENNIES - CONGROGADIDAE
dorsal and anal fins. Very secretive in dense brittle coral A small family of eel-shaped fishes, with several genera that each often comprising a single or few species. Appears to be closely
formation on coasta slopes in depths of about 25 m. related to the pseudochromids and were recently classified as a subfamily in that group. They have very elongated bodies and lacks
Length to about 50 mm. nearly all fin spines. The fins have numerous soft rays in the dorsal and anal fins, sometimes headed by one or two spines and body
is covered with tiny cycloid scales. The ventral fins are absent or vestigal. Most species are less than 10 cm long, but genus
Congrogadus grows 5x as large and lacks all fin spines, and preferred here as a separate family.

L. swalesi. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 45 mm. Carpet Conger Blenny

Congradus subducens
Yellow Reef Basslet Machaerium subducens Richardson, 1843.
Liopropoma multilineatum Northern Territory, Australia.
Liopropoma multilineatum Randall & Taylor, 1988. Widespread along south-east Asian continent,
Solomon Isl. ranging to Papua New Guinea and Australia.
Coastal waters, often in brackish conditions.
Known from Indonesia and the Phlippines to Micronesia
Secretive among rocks or coral rubble in shallow
and Fiji. Easily identified by the unusual colouration. The
depths. Length to 50 cm.
yellow is obvious but the red looks grey when seen in
natural light. Secretive in the back of large caves along
outer reef walls. Depth range 25-50 m. Length to 8 cm.

A B
L. multiliniatum. Togian Islands, Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 25 m. Length 8 cm. C. subducens. Singapore. Depth 5 m. Length 16 cm.

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 DOTTYBACKS - PSEUDOCHROMIDAE Black-stripe Dottyback
Pseudochromis perspicillatus
A family of small but often very colourfull fishes that are commonly noticed on coral reefs. Representatives occur throughout the Pseudochromis perspicillatus Günther, 1862.
Indo-West Pacific but many species have a restricted geographical range. Some species are highly variable in colour and sexual dip- China.
morphism to such extend that they are easily mistaken for different species. Most are territorial and very aggresive, but may live in
West Pacific, Philippines to Bali, along Wallis
pairs or loose groups distributed over a section of reef that is a preferred habitat. They are found in various reef habitats from shal-
Line, and east to Komodo. Silty coastal habitat
low lagoons to outer reef walls where in caves and crevices, or deep on open substrates with remote sponges. with remote coral heads to softbottom at shal-
low depths to about 25 m. Length to 12 cm.
Lyretail Dottyback Pseudochromis moorei
Pseudochromis moorei Fowler, 1931. Philippines.

Philippines to northern Australia. The Bali and Lombok pop-

ulation was recently described as a separate species as P.
steenei on the bases of colour differences. The white bar A
behind eye, used to distinguish the species, fades in P. perspicillatus. Rinco Isl, Komodo. Depth 25 m. Male, length 12 cm.
Philippine and northern Australian populations, but is pres-
ent, whilst in Sulawesi (C) it shows clearly. The other body
and fin colours are identical to Philippine fish. The ones with
the orange head are thought to be male. A very aggressive
species that readily attacks the camera when it sees its own
reflection. Mainly found on deep coastal slopes with remote
sponges and crinoids in about 30 m depth, and often occurs
in pairs. Length to about 12 cm.

A B
P. moorei. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Male, length 12 cm. P. moorei. Tulamben, Bali. Female, length 12 cm.

B
P. perspicillatus. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 8 m. Length 10 cm.

Long-finned Dottyback Pseudochromis polynemus

Pseudochromis polynemus Fowler, 1931. Lembeh Strait, northern
Sulawesi.

Known from Lembeh Strait, northern Sulawesi to Philippines. Recognised

C D
by the long ventral fins, filamented median fins, and yellow tear-mark
P. moorei. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Pair, length 12 cm. P. moorei. Tulamben, Bali. Female, length 12 cm. below the eye. Found on steep slopes and walls with tubular sponges, usu-
ally in depths of about 20 m. Length to 12 cm.

E F A B
P. moorei. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 15 cm. P. moorei. Tulamben, Bali. Juveniles, length 6 cm. P. polynemus. Sangihe Islands. Depth 20 m. Male, length 12 cm.

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 Red-spot Dottyback Pseudochromis sp 1 Splendid Dottyback Pseudochromis splendens
Borneo to Bali, west along Wallis line. Appears to be Pseudochromis splendens Fowler, 1931. Doworra I., Indonesia.
undescribed and replaces the closely related P. polyne-
mus from Sulawesi (next species) and P. splendens east A common species in Flores and Banda Seas, but appears to be
of the Wallace’s line. Found on rich coastal slopes with restricted to that area. Replaced by Red-spot Dottyback (previous
sponges in 6 to 30 m depth. Length to 12 cm. species) westwards. Originally described from Dutch East Indies.
Clear coastal reefs, usually along steep slopes and walls, where liv-
ing in sponges. Seen between 5 and 40 m. Length to 12 cm.

A
P. splendens. Maumere, Flores. Depth 12 m. Juvenile, length 45 mm.

A
P. sp 1. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 20 m. Male, length 12 cm.

B C
B C
P. splendens. Western Flores. Depth 10 m. Adult, length 10 cm. P. splendens. Maumere, Flores. Depth 8 m. Adult, length 12 cm.
P. sp 1. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 25 m. B Male, length 12 cm. B Female, length 10 cm.

Long-finned Dottyback Pseudochromis sp 2

Only known from Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra, but can be
expected throughout the Andaman Sea region. A description is in
preparation by G.R. Allen. Found at moderate depths in 40+ m.
Length to 9 cm.

D E
A
P. sp 1. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 20 m. Female, length 10 cm. P. sp 1. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 25 m. Juv, length 45 mm.

F B
P. sp 1. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 20 m. Female, length 10 cm. P. sp 2. Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra. A Depth 40 m. Female? length 8 cm. B Depth 50 m. Male? length 9 cm.

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 Batanta Dottyback Pseudochromis sp 3 Yellow-tail Dottyback
Northern Irian Jaya and Halmehare. Appears to Pseudochromis marshallensis
represent an undescribed species, closely Pseudochromis aurea marshallensis Schultz, 1953.
related to P. colei from the Philippines. Found Marshall Islands.
on rich invertebrate reefs in depths between
West Pacific. Yellow tail and yellow spots on body
20 and 40 m. Length to about 9 cm, excluding
scales that form dotted lines. Rich coral reef crests in
filaments that develop on the caudal fins in
coastal waters. Length to 60 mm.
large individuals.

A
P. sp 3. Batanta, Raja Ampat Islands, eastern Indonesia. G.R. ALLEN.

A B
P. marshallensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 50 mm.

Blue-eyed Dottyback
Pseudochromis sp 6
Undetermined species from Bali. Occurs in shallow
estuaries. Length to 6 cm.

B
P. sp 3. Batanta, Raja Ampat Islands, eastern Indonesia. Roger Steene. P. sp 6. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 6 cm. Takemoto SHIRATORY.

Karimunjawa Dottyback Pseudochromis ransonneti Blue-eyed Dottyback

Pseudochromis ransonneti Steindachner, 1870. Singapore. Pseudochromis sp 7
Singapore and Sunatra to Java’s northern coastal waters. Reef slopes Undetermined species that is common at Derawan on
at about 20 m depth. Length about 7 cm. deep reef flats in 30+ m, and appears to be unde-
scribed. Length to about 8 cm.

A B
P. ransonneti. Karimunjawa, off northern Java’s coast. Depth 17 m. Length 7 cm. P. sp 7 Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 35 m. Length 65 mm.

Rinca Dottyback Pseudochromis sp 5 Andaman Dottyback Pseudochromis andamanensis Blue-barred Dottyback

Pseudochromis andamanensis Lubbock, 1980. Similan Islands. Pseudochromis cyanotaenia
Undetermined species from the Komodo area. Several similar small Pseudochromis cyanotaenia Bleeker, 1857. Buru I.,
species that are generally plain with some yellow and a small axil spot A little known species from the Andaman sea region. Shallow reefs to Moluccas.
that need investigation. about 10 m depth. Length to about 7 cm.
Widespread West Pacific from southern Japan to
northern Australia. Secretive in sheltered coastal
reefs. Length to 60 mm.

P. sp 5. Rinca I., Komodo. Depth 20 m. Length 65 mm. P. andamanensis. Pulau Weh, northern Sumatra. G.R. ALLEN. P. cyanotaenia. Lizard I, Queensland, Australia. Depth 7 m. Length 60 mm.

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 Java Dottyback Pseudochromis sp 8 Floppy-tail Dottyback Pseudochromis elongatus
Undetermined species from Java. Silty coasta habitats. Plain Pseudochromis elongatus Lubbock, 1980. Ambon.
with dusky band on snout. Length to about 10 cm.
Philippines to Sulawesi and Moluccen Seas. The specimens
in the photographs were together in a spot that comprised of
some rubble pieces on a steep slope with mixed living corals
and sandy-rubble gutters. Length to 65 mm.

P. sp 8. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 7 m. Length 8 cm.

Dusky Dottyback Pseudochromis fuscus

Pseudochromis fuscus Müller & Troschel, 1849. Sulawesi.

Widespread West Pacific. Various colour variations from almost

blackish brown to bright yellow. Coastal reefs and lagoons, usu- A B
ally near rubble patches to about 10 m depth. Length to 10 cm. P. elongatus. Togean Islands, Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 15 m. A Female? length 45 mm. B Male? length 55 mm.

Togean Dottyback Pseudochromis sp 10

Undetermined species, similar to P. bitaeniatus. Possibly
endemic to Tomini Bay. Identified by lyre-tail and red mark
under eye. Along drop-offs in caves to at least 30 m depth.
Length to about 85 mm.
A
P. fuscus. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm.

B C
P. fuscus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 9 cm. P. fuscus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 6 m. Length 9 cm.

Blue-tail Dottyback Pseudochromis sp 9

Pseudochromis fuscus Müller & Troschel, 1849. Sulawesi.

Widespread West Pacific. Various colour variations from almost

A B
blackish brown to bright yellow. Coastal reefs and lagoons, usu-
ally near rubble patches to about 10 m depth. Length to 10 cm. P. sp 10 Togean Islands, Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 25 m. A & B Same individual. Male? length 75 mm.

Double-stripe Dottyback
Pseudochromis bitaeniatus
A Dampiera bitaeniata Fowler, 1931. Philippines.
P. sp 9. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 3 m. Length 11 cm.
Widespread West Pacific from Philippines to northern
Australia. Protected rich coral reefs to about 25 m depth.
Length to 12 cm.

B C A B
P. sp 9 Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 8 cm. P. sp 9. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 8 cm. P. bitaeniatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 35 mm. P. bitaeniatus. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 8 m. Length 85 mm.

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 Two-tone Dottyback Pseudochromis paccagnellae Sangihe Dottyback Cypho sp 1 Black-tip Dottyback Pseudoplesiops sp 1
Pseudochromis paccagnellae Axelrod, 1973.
Northern Indonesia. Undetermined species that appears to be unde- Undetermined species that is common in Maumere Bay, Flores.
Aquarium specimens from Indonesia.
scribed. Similar to C. purpurescens from eastern Australia and Papua Secretive in on rich coastal slopes with dense brittle corals and
Southern Indonesia to north-eastern Australia. Some geo- New Guinea. Occurs in rock wall habitat with sparse coral growth. sponges. Length to about 40 mm.
graphical variations. Coastal to outer reef walls, usually in Length to about 65 mm.
depths over 20 m. Length to 60 mm.

A B
P. paccacnellae. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 60 mm. P. paccacnellae. Tulamben, Bali. D. 20 m. L. 55 mm.

Purple-top Dottyback Pseudochromis diadema

Pseudochromis diadema Lubbock & Randall, 1978.
Malaysia and Philipines. P. sp 1. Sangihe Islands. Depth 10 m. Length 65 mm. P. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 35 mm.

Northern Indonesia to Philippines. Sheltered reefs with rich

coral growth, on slopes and walls. Length to 55 mm. Big-eye Dottyback Pseudoplesiops typus Pink Dottyback Pseudoplesiops multisquamatus
Pseudoplesiops typus Bleeker, 1858. Goram I., Indonesia. Pseudoplesiops multisquamatus Allen, 1987. GBR, Australia.

Widespread West Pacific. Reef crests and lagoons to about 25 m depth. Widespread West Pacific. In caves and crevices along outer reef walls
Variable from pale yellow to red. Length to 75 mm. to about 25 m depth. Appears pink underwater. Length to 75 mm.

A B
P. diadema. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 15 m. Length 50 mm. P. diadema. Mabul, Malaysia. D. 15 m. L. 25 mm.

Yellow-top Dottyback Pseudochromis aurifrons

Pseudochromis aurifrons Lubbock, 1980.
Port Moresby, PNG.

Only known from Irian Jaya and PNG. Identified by the bright
yellow over the head and back. Sheltered habitats with rich
coral growth to about 30 m depth. Length to 65 mm.

P. typus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 60 mm. P. multisquamatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 50 mm.

Knight’s Dottyback Pseudoplesiops knighti Rose Island Dottyback Pseudoplesiops rosae

Pseudoplesiops knighti Allen, 1987. GBR, Australia. Pseudoplesiops rosae Schultz, 1943. American Samoa.
A B
P. aurifrons. Irian Jaya. Depth 20 m. Length 60 mm. Glen BARRALL. P. aurifrons. Loloata, PNG. Depth 20 m. Length 50 mm. West Pacific. Coastal reef slopes amongst algae boulder habitat to about Indonesia to northern Australia and Papua New Guinea. In caves with
20 m depth. Length to 45 mm. rich invertebrate growth in walls. Length to 60mm.
Magenta Dottyback Pseudochromis porphyreus
Pseudochromis porphyreus Lubbock & Goldman, 1974.
Ishigaki Shima, Japan.

Southern Japan and Philippines, reaching along eastern

Indonesia to Irian Jaya. Easily identified by the bright purple
colour that looks bright blue in sunlit underwater condi-
tions. Rich coral reef habitats to about 30 m depth. Length
to 60 mm.

P. porphyreus. North-western Irian Jaya. Depth 10 m. Length 50 mm. G.R. ALLEN. P. knighti. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 40 mm. P. rosae. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 45 mm.

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 Fire-tail Devil Labracinus cyclophthalmus LONGFINS - PLESIOPIDAE
Cichlops cyclophthalmus Müller & Troschel, 1849.
Sunda Sea, Indonesia. A small family of secretive fishes with 7 genera and about 20 species, but few are noticed in tropical water. Only the Comet, the
West Pacific from southern Indonesia to southern Japan. Some geo-
largest species, will show itself during the day. The small species live in various parts of the reef. Some are intertidal and can be
graphical variation in barred pattern. Mainly found on reef found in shallow pools under large rubble pieces. Despite being secretive, they make intersting aquarium specimens.
crest with moderate surge or currents where in spread-out
groups of mixed sexes. Moves about activily through the gut-
ters and passages. In some places on reef slopes with large Comet Calloplesiops altivelis
coral formations to about 20 m depth. Length to 20 cm. Plesiops altivelis Steindachner, 1903.
Nias I, west coast, Sumatra.

Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. A

secretive species, usually seen in the
A back of dark caves or crevices when
L. cyclophthalmus. Bali. Depth 6 m. Large male, length 20 cm. using a torch. Occurs shallow in muddy
coastal as well as pristine outer reef habi-
tats to about 50 m depth. A very distinc-
tive species, readily identified by its dark
appearance and in having many small
white spots that become proportionally
smaller and more numerous with age.
Together with the false-eye on the dorsal
fin and the whitish tipped caudal fin, its
rear end looks like the head of a large fish
such as a white spotted rock cod or
guineafowl puffer that often frequent their A
habitat. Length to 20 cm. C. altivelis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 18 m. Length 12 cm.
B C
L. cyclophthalmus. Sangihe Islands. D. 10 m. Female, length 15 cm. L. cyclophthalmus. Sangihe Islands. D. 6 m. Male, length 18 cm.

Emperor Devil Labracinus melanotaenia

Cichlops melanotaenia Bleeker, 1852. Southern Sulawesi.

Indonesia and Philippines. Locally common. Sheltered, slightly silty,

coral reefs in depths between 6 and 20 m. Moves about over large
sections of reef, swimming through passages and occasionally
crossing open areas. Males bright red or orange. Females less
colourful. Length to 20 cm.

B C
C. altivelis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 18 m. Length 12 cm. C. altivelis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 16 cm.

A B
L. melanotaenia. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 10 m. Male, length 20 cm. L. melanotaenia. Komodo. Female, length 16 cm.

C D
L. melanotaenia. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 10 m. Male, length 20 cm. C. altivelis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 16 cm.

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 Coral Longfin Plesiops coeruleolineatus TRIPLE TAILS - LOBOTIDAE
Plesiops coeruleolineatus Rüppell, 1835. Red Sea.
Comprises a single genus and species with a global distribution in tropical seas. Juveniles float with loose weed on the surface and
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Shallow coastal reefs and may travel great distances.
tidal pools. Common but very secretive and usually found
when turning rubble pieces in pools. Length to 75 mm.
Triple Tail Lobotus surinamensis
Holocentrus surinamensis Bloch, 1790. Suriname.

Widespread, all tropical seas. Adults in muddy estuaries and lower

reaches of large rivers. Juveniles float offshore with Sargassum
rafts during the wet season. Length to 1 m.

A B
P. coeruleolineatus. Maumere, Flores. Tidal pool. Length 30 mm. P. coeruleolineatus. Maumere, Flores. Length 30 mm.

SPINY BASSLETS - ACANTHOCLINIDAE

A
A small family of tiny fishes with 5 genera and about 10 known species, but more are likely to be discovered. Most species just reach L. surinamensis. Aquarium, Jakarta. Adult about 60 cm.
a few cm in total length and live secretively in rocky reefs or coral rubble where they remain hidden under cover. The are small but
fierce predators on postlarval reef fishes. They are similar to dottybacks and plesiopids, but feature numerous spines in the dorsal
and anal fins. They are also known as dottybacks, rockfishes or spiny-basslets.

Skunk Spiny Basslet Acanthoplesiops hiatti

Acanthoplesiops hiatti Schultz, 1953.
Off Eniwetok, w. Pacific.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific, mainly known from

Indonesia and Philippines but also Fiji. Nearly all black, but
a thin white line over the back from the tip of the snout and
along the tips of the dorsal fin spines. Sheltered rubble reef
B C
slopes to at least 20 m depth. Length to 24 mm.
L. surinamensis. Maumere, Flores. Surface waters. Length 10 cm. L. surinamensis. Maumere, Flores. Surface waters. Length 7 cm.

A. hiatti. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 20 mm.

FLAGTAILS - KUHLIIDAE
Badger Spiny Basslet Acanthoplesiops echinatus A small family with a single genus and about 6 species in the Indo-
Flagtail Kuhlia mugil
Acanthoclinus echinatus Smith-Vaniz & Johnson, 1990. West Pacific, one Atlantic. Coastal surface fishes that feed on
Ambon. Sciaena mugil Forster, 1801. Tahiti. plankton. Mostly plain silvery but caudal fin with stripes.
Moluccen Seas to northern Irian Jaya. Pale cream and dis- Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to subtropical zones.
tinctively marked with black banding over the top, anal fin Swims in schools in turbulant waters around small coastal head-
and a vertical band on the caudal fin base. Secretice in shel- lands and sometimes seen swimming along the edges of beaches
tered reefs to about 20 m depth. Length to 40 mm. in pursuit of zooplankton. Length to about 20 cm.

A. echinatus. North-west Irian Jaya. Length 30 mm. G.R. ALLEN.

Barred Spiny Basslet Belonepterygion fasciolatum

Acanthoclinus fasciolatus Ogilby, 1889. Lord Howe I.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific, northern Australia to south-

ern Japan. A white line over the top of the head and the body
with thin vertical black lines. Usually found amongst large
coral rubble patches in lagoons ot tidal channels, usually in
less than 5 m depth. Length to 50 mm.

B. fasciolatum. One Tree Island, Qld. Depth 4 m. Length 45 mm. K. mugil. Aquarium, Japan. Length 20 cm.

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 TRUMPTERS & GRUNTERS - TERAPONTIDAE BIGEYES - PRIACANTHIDAE
A moderately large family with 16 genera and about 40 species, but grunters are primarily freshwater and most are found in A small but disticntive family of large-eyed fishes in 4 genera and about 17 species worldwide. Because of their large eyes, also known
Australian waters. Several trumpeters occur in estuaries in Indonesian waters and are often seen over sand or mud flats in small as red-bullseyes, goggle-eyes and glasseyes. The inside of the ventral fin is connected to the belly with a membrane and most species
aggregations. They are also called sea-perches and most marine species have multiple longitudinal lines along the body. are a reddish brown to red colour all over, sometimes displaying bands or blothces that are turned-on at will. Mainly planktivorous.

Flagtail Trumpeter Terapon theraps Blotched Bigeye

Therapon theraps Cuvier, 1829. Java. Heteropriacanthus cruentatus
Labrus cruentatus Lacepède, 1801.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Sheltered coastal bays and estuaries.
Dominica, Lesser Antilles.
Juveniles with floating weeds, often far offshore. Length to 30 cm.
Widespread, all tropical seas? Doubtfully the
same between Atlantic and Pacific seas.
Sheltered outer reef habitats, amongst large
boulders or in caves. Identified by the pattern
on blotches on the body and small-spotted
A median fins. Length to 32 cm.
T. theraps. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 2 m. Length 20 cm.

A
H. cruentatus. Sangihe Islands. Depth 10 m. Juvenile, length 14 cm, night.

B C
T. theraps. Menjangan Island, Bali. Surface waters, under floating debris. Length 6-10 cm.

Crescent Perch Terapon jarbua

Sciaena jarbua Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Recognised by the curved bands along the

back. Commonly found along estuary beaches and most observed species by
divers and waders. Adults in loose aggregations. Juveniles often in tidal
pools. Length to 25 cm.

B
T. jarbua. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length 25 cm. H. cruentatus. Solitary Islands, NSW, Australia. Depth 12 m. Adults, length 30 cm.

Fourline Trumpeter Pelatus quadrilineatus Spotted Bigeye

Holocentrus quadrilineatus Bloch, 1790. The Orient. Priacanthus macracanthus
Widespread tropical Indo-West Pacific. Several very similar species. Coastal Priacanthus macracanthus Cuvier, 1829.
bays and estuaries, usually forming schools. Juveniles in seagrass beds and Ambon.
in mangrove bays. Length to 20 cm. Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Sheltered
deep harbours and offshore on softbottom in
deep water. Identified by the pattern of blotch-
es on the body and the large-spotted median
fins. Length to 30 cm.

A B
P. quadrilineatus. Swansea, NSW, Australia. Depth 6 m. Length 18 cm. P. quadrilineatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 16 cm. P. macracanthus. Sydney, Australia. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm.

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 Crescent-tail Bigeye Priacanthus hamrur Black-spot Bigeye
Sciaena hamrur Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Priacanthus sagittarius
Priacanthus sagittarius Starnes, 1988.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Various reef habitats,
South coast, Sumatra.
usually along reef slopes and seen openly about in
small aggregations. Sometimes schools in oceanic West Pacific. Has black spot at base of ven-
locations. Probably the most common Bigeye. Length tral fins. Looks similar to Heteropriacanthus
to 45 cm. cruentatus, but lateral line runs much lower
below the soft dorsal fin. Sheltered reefs in
moderate depths, usually in caves or under
coral plates. Length to 35 cm

A B
P. hamrur. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm. P. hamrur. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. L. 30 cm. P. sagittarius. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 25 cm.

Silver Bigeye Priacanthus blochii Big-fin Bigeye

Sciaena blochiii Bleeker, 1853. Jakarta, Sumatra Cookeolus japonicus
and Ambon. Priacanthus japonicus Cuvier, 1829. Japan.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Variable from plain Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Deep along
reddish-brown to a silvery, with red blotches or coastal slopes with rich invertebrate growth
bands. Can change quickly with mood. Sheltered such as sponges and soft corals. Last (10th)
coastal reefs, bays and estuaries, often silty habitat. dorsal spine twice the length of the second.
Length to 30 cm. Length to 60 cm.

A B
P. blochii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 25 cm. P. blochii. Same individual as C. A B
C. japonicus. Tulamben, Bali. A Depth 50 m. Juvenile, length 10 cm. B Depth 60 m. Length 30 cm.

C C
P. blochii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm. C. japonicus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 60 m. Length 30 cm.

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 CARDINALFISHES - APOGONIDAE Spiny-eye Cardinalfish Apogon melanorhynchus
Apogon melanorhijnchus Bleeker, 1852. Ambon.
A very large family of mostly smallish fishes with at least 26 genera and over 300 species worldwide, most of which found on reefs Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Peduncular spot
in the Indo-West Pacific. Many species school during the day in shallow coastal reef habitats and disperse at night to feed on zoo- large, centrally placed, it reduces in size or fades with depth
plankton, but may feed during the day as well if the opportunity presnts itself. The male incubates the brood in its mouth. and can be absent in deep water. Length to 10 cm.

A B
A. melanorhynchus. Tulamben, Bali. D. 57 m. L. 8 cm. A. melanorhynchus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm.

Tapered-line Cardinalfish Apogon fraenatus

Apogon fraenatus Valenciennes, 1832. New Guinea and
Guam.

Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. A small to near

pupil-size peduncular spot. Spot is just above mid-lateral
stripe (typically as shown in A), and its lower edge at level
with the lower ray of the central two rays in the caudal fin.
The spot is usually absent in deep water (C) or at night and
often fades in the afternoon. Abundant in some coastal
estuaries, but also deep along outer reef walls to 60 m.
Occurs singly, in pairs or in groups with the pairs distrib-
uted over large areas. Length to 10 cm. A
A. fraenatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 12 cm.

Maumere Bay, Flores. Mixed apogons sheltering under a jetty in a well pretected area during the day. The llarge coral-rubble pieces and long-spined urchins
Diadema sp. offer protection for numerous individuals. The lined species are Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus, plain with a white saddle-spot is Apogon perlitus, the
pale and plain species is undescribed, the brown species with the black and white bands on the tail, + blue leading edge on ventral fins is A. bandanensis, and the
pale species with the dark line running through the eye is A. sealei.
B C
A. fraenatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 57 m. Length 8 cm. A. fraenatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm.
Komodo Cardinalfish Apogon komodoensis
Apogon komodoensis Allen, 1998. Komodo Islands.
Spiny-head Cardinalfish Apogon urostigma
A recently discovered species, only known from the Apogon urostigma Bleeker, 1872. Singapore.
Komodo area. Golden with orange-brown ear-mark and
dusky caudal peduncle, abruptly changing to white caudal- Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Peduncular spot
base. Schools over coral reefs, usually hovering close large in young, but fades or proportionally reduces in size
above dense branching corals or feeding high above in cur- with age, and often absent in large adults. Coastal reef
rents on zooplankton. Length to 10 cm. slopes to30 m depth. Length to 15 cm.

A B A B
A. komodoensis. Rinca Island, Komodo. Depth 10 m. Length 11 cm. B by G.R. ALLEN. A. urostigma. Sipadan. Depth 10 m. Length 5 cm. A. urostigma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 15 cm.

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 Mosaic-line Cardinalfish Apogon sp 1 Tail-eye Cardinalfish Apogon ocellicaudus Mini Cardinalfish Apogon neotus Red-spot Cardinalfish Apogon parvulus
Apogon ocellicaudus Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994. Ashmore Reef, Apogon neotus Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994. Flores, Indonesia. Apogon parvulus Smith & Radcliffe, 1912. Tataan Pass, Philippines.
Only known from the above photographs and possibly identical to a Timor Sea.
species from northern Australia. Usually found sheltering in the shade Widespread West Pacific. Semi-transparent, appearance juvenile-like. West Pacific from Indonesia to southern Japan. Semitransparent with
of large soft corals. On muddy coastal slopes in depths over 20 m. Timor sea to Sulawesi and Flores. Mid-lateral stripe orange to pale yel- Black peduncular spot and black on tip of mouth. In moderate depths, distinctive large red peduncular spot when adult. Schooling species,
Length to 45 mm. low. Coastal coral reefs, pairing, in small groups, with large coral for- usually about 15-20 m, forming small schools with large soft corals and sometimes congregating in great numbers with large coral heads in
mations in depths between 15-30 m. Length to 50 mm. along walls. Length to 30 mm. current-prone areas, coastal reefs. to 10 m depth. Length to 40 mm.

A. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 45 mm. A. ocellicaudus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 45 mm. A. neotus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 30 mm. A. parvulus. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 10 m. Length 40 mm.

Faint-banded Cardinalfish Apogon franssedai Belly-spot Cardinalfish Apogon sp 2 White-spot Cardinalfish Apogon dispar Shooting-Star Cardinalfish Apogon selas
Apogon franssedai Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994. Flores, Indonesia. Only know from the Maldives and Andaman Sea. Closely related to A. Apogon dispar Fraser & Randall, 1976. Palau. Apogon selas Randall & Hayashi, 1989. Madang, Papua New Guinea.
franssedai. Lines on head and body black and short. A white blotch in
Southern Indonesia to northern Australia and New Guinea. Lives in Widespread tropical west Pacific and east Indian Ocean. Clear coastal to West Pacific, sporadic distribution from Southern Japan to Bali and
black gular area as shown in photographs. Usually in pairs with coral
caves along deep walls, mainly outer reefs, where in small groups, outer reefs, commonly found in large black corals growing away from Solomon Islands. Sheltered coastal reefs, in small aggregations. Depth
head in moderate depths to about 50 m.Length to about 65 mm.
rarely seen in less than 25 m. Length to 75 mm. walls from 15 to 50 m. Length to 50 mm. range 3–45 m. Length to 40 mm.

A. dispar. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 45 mm. A. selas. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 40 mm.

A. franssedai. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 50 mm. A. sp 2. Pulau Weh. Depth 35 m. Length 50 mm. G.R. ALLEN.
Long-line Rifle Cardinalfish Apogon sp 4
Half-barred Cardinalfish Apogon sp 3 Yellow-band Cardinalfish Apogon nanus Widespread tropical West Pacific. Previously confused with the
Japanese endemic A. kiensis, where the two occur sympatric. Coastal
Northern Australia and Indonesia to northern Sulawesi. Coastal slopes, Apogon nanus Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994. Flores, Indonesia.
estuaries and deep mud habitats. Small juveniles often around large
usually deep and swimming above large coral bommies in pairs or small
Indonesia and New Guinea. Yellow or ocre mid-lateral band, bordered stinging anemones that live openly on muddy substrates, or below the
groups during the day. Feeds just above substrate at night, often on
by white below. Shallow bays and estuaries, silty coastal reefs, forming long tentacles of tube-anemones Cerianthus spp. Length to 8 cm.
sand flats away from reef. Length to about 10 cm.
small to large aggregations around coral heads in 3-20 m, comprising
pairs. Small species, length to 60 mm.

A
A. sp 4. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 7 cm.

B
A. sp 3. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 9 cm. A. nanus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 55 mm. A. sp 4. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length ~4 cm.

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 Indian Striped Cardinalfish Apogon quadrifasciatus Indonesian Barred-striped Cardinalfish Apogon sp 5 Pearly-lined Cardinalfish Apogon taeniophorus Narrow-striped Cardinalfish Apogon angustatus
Apogon quadrifasciatus Cuvier, 1828. India. Apogon taeniophorus Regan, 1908. Maldives. Amia angustatus Smith & Radcliffe, 1911. Philippines.
Only known from Maumere Bay, northeastern Flores. It lives on muddy
Indian Ocean, ranging east to Bali. Recognised by the distinctive white substrate habitat, often found near holes made by mud crabs. Adults Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Best distinguished from similar Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Stripes and interspaces of about
leading edge on ventral fins. Forms small aggregations on muddy sub- usually seen in pairs and in depths over 20 m but juveniles from about species by partially thickened lower stripes on opercle and above pec- equal width, peduncular spot usually distinct. Clear coastal reef crests
strates in shallow estuaries to 80 m off-shore. Length to 95 mm. 10 m. Length to 12 cm. toral fin. Coastal reefs, secretive during day. Often very shallow near and slopes where usually shallow, and along deep drop-offs to 25 m.
intertidal zone, to depths of about 10 m. Length to 10 cm. Length to 11 cm.

A. quadrifasciatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 65 mm. A. sp 5. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 10 cm. A. taeniophorus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. A. angustatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 9 cm.

Mud-bay Cardinalfish Apogon sp 6 Many-striped Cardinalfish Apogon endekataenia

Only known from eastern Sulawesi. This species has a sin- Amia endekataenia Bleeker, 1852. Banka, Indonesia.
gle straight and low black line along upper sides the grad-
West Pacific, and presently only known from Indonesia and
ually decends close to the mid-lateral stripe. The female
Singapore. Many erronous records elsewhere. Coastal
develops vertical barring below the mid-lateral stripe.yel-
reefs, usually shallow silty reefs and ranging to deep soft
low on mouth and entire ventral fin is pale blue. During the
bottom habitats. Length to 14 cm.
day this species schools on deep mudflats in about 25 m
depth in sea-whip beds. Length to about 10 cm.

A B A B
A. sp 6. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 25 m. A Brooding male, length 10 cm. A Females, length 9 cm. A. endekataenia. Singapore. Depth 10 m. Length 8 cm. A. endekataenia. Singapore. Depth 10 m. Length 10 cm.

Lembeh Striped Cardinalfish Apogon sp 7 Cook’s Cardinalfish Apogon cookii Black-striped Cardinalfish Apogon nigrofasciatus Yellow-striped Cardinalfish Apogon sp 8
Apogon cookii Macleay, 1881. Queensland, Australia. Apogon nigrofasciatus Lachner, 1953. Bikini, Marshall Islands. Apogon cf nigrofasciatus
Northern Sulawesi. Has thick black lines, two upper close together, and
an additional faint half-stripe from above eye. Schools at moderate Widespread Indo-west Pacific. Lower stripes thick, no caudal-base Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Stripes very broad and black, West Pacific, mainly Indonesia. Previously included with A. nigrofas-
depths in current prone channels on open substrate and shelter near spot. Shallow reef crest and lagoons. Subtidal zone to depths of about interspaces white and thin. Coastal to outer, usually in narrow ledges ciatus. Rich coastal to outer reefs along drop-offs in caves. Usually in
large remote reefs. Length to about 11 cm. 10 m. Length to 10 cm. along slopes or drop-offs to depth of 50 m. Length to 8 cm. pairs. Length to 85 mm.

A. sp 7. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 29 m. Length 10 cm. A. cookii. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 2 m. Length 10 cm. A. nigrofasciatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 75 mm. A. sp 8. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 85 mm.

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 Nine-line Cardinalfish Apogon novemfasciatus Pearly Cardinalfish Apogon margaritophorus Multi-striped Cardinalfish Apogon multilineatus
Apogon novemfasciatus Cuvier, 1828. Timor and Guam. Apogon margaritophorus Bleeker, 1854. Batjan, Indonesia. Apogon multilineatus Bleeker, 1863. Ceram, Indonesia.
Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Striped body pattern extends Tropical West Pacific. Mid-lateral stripe joining to stripe below over Tropical West Pacific, ranging west to Java. Numerous thin lines
onto caudal fin and stripes converge towards centre. Shallow protected abdomen forming series of white spots between. Coastal reefs in small on body and thick bands through eye and below. Sometimes a
coastal reefs and lagoons, often silty habitat. Usually in pairs swimming groups, usually sheltering near long spined urchins or large anemones in small black peduncular spot. Coastal reefs and lagoons, usually
close to shelter. Length to 10 cm. seagrasses. To about 10 m depth. Length to 65 mm. with large coral bommies. To depths of 25 m. Length to 10 cm.

A
A. multilineatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm.

A. novemfasciatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. A. margaritophorus. Lembeh Strat, Sulawesi. D. 1 m. L. 65 mm.

Blue-eyed Cardinalfish Apogon compressus

Amia compressa Smith & Radcliffe, 1911. Philippines. B C
A. multilineatus. Mabul, Malaysia. D. 10 m. L. 65 mm. A. multilineatus. Manado. Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 85 mm.
Widespread West Pacific. Eyes iridescent blue. Stripes red-
brown to black, sometimes breaking up in series of spots.
Small juveniles have yellow caudal peduncle with black spot Maldivian Cardinalfish Apogon sp 9
in centre, mimicking the large-toothed Cheilodipterus spp Known from the Maldives region and Andaman Sea to Java.
that enables them to swim about more freely. Coastal reefs to Sheltered reefs in lagoons and harbours. In small groups with
outer reef lagoons. Length to 12 cm. corals, shallow to about 20 m depth. Length to 50 mm.

A B
A. compressus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 12 cm. A. compressus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. L. 8 cm. A B
A. sp 9. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 5 cm. A. sp 9. Pulau Weh, Sumatra. Depth 10 m. Length 5 cm. Roger C. STEENE.
Orange-lined Cardinalfish Apogon cyanosoma
Apogon cyanosoma Bleeker, 1853. Solor, Indonesia. Pacific Orange-lined Cardinalfish Apogon sp 10 Kupang Cardinalfish Apogon wassinki
Restricted to the tropical west Pacific. Name used for sever- Western Indonesia, east to Bali, Malaysia, Taiwan and southern Apogon wassinki Bleeker, 1861. Kupang, Timor Isl.
al other species elsewhere. A represents the true species, as Japan. Orange stripes thicker than interspaces along lower half of
there are no other orange-lined species in the type-locality. the body, mid-lateral line ends just past base of caudal fin Snout in Limited distribution and seems restricted to the Timor Seas and only recent-
Sheltered coral and seagrass habitats in coastal bays and adults black with thin white lines that continue through eyes. ly discovered in north Western Australia. Variable from light brown to pale
lagoons, but prefers clear water, often forming dense schools Common species on coastal reefs and lagoons, often in schools, body with orange to reddish stripes in relation to coastal or offshore habi-
to depths of 20 m. Has orange-yellow stripes along upper in depths to 25 m, usually to 15 m. Length to 70 mm. tats, clear water conditions. Length to 70 mm.
body thinner than grey-white interspaces, sub-equal along
abdomen, and midlateral stripe ends into pinkish to orange
spot on caudalfin base (red at night). Length to 65 mm.

A B
A. cyanosoma. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length 5 cm. A. cyanosoma. Bali. Night, depth 5 m. L. 65 mm. A. sp 10. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 70 mm. A. wassinki. Kimberleys, WA. Length 65 mm. G.R. ALLEN.

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 High-fin Cardinalfish Apogon chrysotaenia Silver-lined Cardinalfish Apogon hartzfeldii
Apogon chrysotaenia Bleeker, 1851. Java. Apogon hartzfeldii Bleeker, 1852. Ambon.

West Pacific. Juveniles strongly striped. Adults with Indonesia and Philippines. Juveniles with black stripes and thin
faint stripes, but tall anteriorily pointed second dorsal white lines. Adults loose black stripes, but have a pupil-sized
fin. Sometimes has dark peduncular spot which can be black peduncular spot and upper white line remains obvious.
turned on or off with mood. Shallow coastal reef flats Shallow lagoons and sheltered coastal reefs in depths to about
with rocky boulder substrate to depths of about 10 m. 10 m. Sometimes in small groups between massing long-
Length to 12 cm. spined urchins in shallow lagoons. Length to 12 cm.

B
A. hartzfeldii. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 6 m. Length 12 cm.

A
A. hartzfeldii. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 50 mm.

A B
A. chrysotaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 12 cm. A. chrysotaenia. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 6 cm.

Cheek-spot Cardinalfish
Apogon chrysopomus
Apogon chrysopomus Bleeker, 1854. Celebes.

Various localities in tropical West Pacific. Adults with C D

orange spots on cheek and young with black body A. hartzfeldii. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 8 cm. A. hartzfeldii. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 85 mm.
lines. Coastal reefs and lagoons. Usually forming
schools amongst staghorn corals along reef margins
Cavite Cardinalfish Apogon cavitensis
onto sand. To about 25 m depth. Length to 10 cm.
Apogon cavitensis Jordan & Seale, 1907. Philippines.

Singapore to Bali and Philippines. Ocre mid-lateral stripe and

a thin bright yellow line along back. Juveniles with pale head
and yellow body. Usually with rocky outcrops on sand or
mud in 3-30 m. Length to 65 mm.

A B
A. chrysopomus. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 8 m. Length 10 cm. A. chrysopomus. Bali. D. 6 m. L. 6 cm.

Cheek-bar Cardinalfish Apogon sealei

Apogon sealei Fowler, 1918. Philippines. A B
A. cavitensis. Mabul, Malaysia. D. 6 m. L. 4 cm. A. cavitensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 65 mm.
Indonesia and Philippines. Barred cheek pattern. In
small to large aggregations low on the reef, in corals
adjacent to open sand. Shallow, rarely seen deeper Pearly-finned Cardinalfish Apogon poecilopterus
than 10 m. Length to 10 cm. Apogon poecilopterus Cuvier, 1828. Java, Indonesia.

Indonesia and northern Australia. Lives in holes in the mud

during the day. Usually trawled inshore on soft bottom near
river mouths. Length to 14 cm.

A B A B
A. sealei. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. A. sealei. Maumere, Flores. D. 3 m. L. 5 cm. A. poecilopterus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 25 m. Length 12 cm. A seen in the hole from above. B emerging from hole.

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 Ring-tail Cardinalfish Apogon fleurieu Blackrim Cardinalfish
Ostorhynchus fleurieu Lacepède, 1801. Pacific Ocean. Apogon nigrocinctus
Centropomus aureus Lacepède, 1802. Mauritius and Apogon nigrocinctus
Reunion. Smith & Radcliffe, 1912. Philippines.
Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Adults usually
West Pacific from northern Australia
with a broad black band around caudal base but some-
to Philippines. Body plain light pur-
times reduced to as much as a rounded spot. In juveniles
plish brown. Black lines at second
the spot round and small. Adults golden-yellow with blue
dorsal- anal- and caudal fin bases.
lines on head and often pale posteriorly over back.
On open substrate, schooling with
Appears to prefer clearer coastal reefs with moderate
large coral heads during the day. B
currents, and found with large remote bommies, but also
photographed at 30 m depth with a
in tidal channels of estuaries. Usually seen in small
large coral head in a strong current-
schools comprising pairs when adult. A common reef
prone area. Usually trawled inshore
species in coastal reefs to depths of 30 m, but usually
on soft bottom. Length to 85 mm.
much shallower. Length to 12 cm.

Remarks: Recently referred to as A. aureus. Variation in

the peduncular spot led to confusion and the use of two
different names for the same species. At Gilimanuk, Bali,
some individuals changed their peduncular band to A. nigrocinctus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 30 m. Length 85 mm.
round when the water cooled.

False Ear-spot Cardinalfish Apogon jenkinsi Masked Cardinalfish Apogon thermalis

Apogon jenkinsi Evermann & Seale, 1907. Philippines. Apogon thermalis Cuvier, 1829. Ceylon.

West Pacific, sporadic occurance, from northern Australia to southern Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Dusky above, black stripe from
Japan. Previously confused with the subtropical A. notatus, a Japanese snout through eye, small black spot at end of each dorsal fin, and round
endemic. In clear lagoons with deep sand slopes, forming schools black caudal-base spot. Sometimes has yellow barring on sides.
A above remote rock or coral outcrops to 30 m depth. Length to 10 cm. Coastal protected clear waters, in small schools with outcrops on reef
A. fleurieu. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. Brooding male, length 12 cm. on sand to depths of 20 m. Length 8 cm.

A. jenkinsi. Rinca I., Komodo. Depth 10 m. Length 11 cm. A. thermalis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 8 cm.
B C
A. fleurieu. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 10 cm. A. fleurieu. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 30 m. Length 12 cm.
Flag-fin Cardinalfish Apogon hoeveni
Apogon hoeveni Bleeker, 1854. Ambon.
Plain Cardinalfish Apogon apogonides
Cheilodipterus apogonides Bleeker, 1856. Indonesia. West Pacific from Australia to Japan. First dorsal fin yellow
to dusky with broad white posterior margin. Forms small
Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Juveniles pale schools in estuaries and sheltered bays with soft-bottom
with short blue lines on snout. Adults to deep golden habitat to depths of 25 m. Length to 60 mm.
with blue spots on sides and line following eye. Similar
to A. fleurieu but lacks any peduncular band or spot.
Sheltered clear coastal to outer reefs from shallow flats
to over 50 m depth. Usually in pairs, small aggregations,
or occasionally schooling. Length to 10 cm.

A B
A. apogonides. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 9 cm. A. hoeveni. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 4 cm. A. hoeveni. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 85 mm.

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 Yellow-eye Cardinalfish Apogon monochrous Timor Cardinalfish Apogon timorensis
Apogon monochrous Bleeker, 1856. Manado, Indonesia. Apogon timorensis Bleeker, 1854. Timor.
Queensland to Philippines and Papua New Guinea. Previous confused with A. Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Yellow to brown with
moluccensis. Light-brown or pale with broad dusky-ocre or yellow mid-lateral band irregular broad dark banding. Shallow protected coastal reef
and intermittently with a small white spot at end of second dorsal fin base. Eyes dis- crests and lagoons, hiding below corals during the day, but
tinctivily yellow. Sometimes with pupil-sized white blotches over the body. Common also trawled on soft bottom. Length to 10 cm
coastal species, usually seen in pairs or schooling, comprising numerous pairs
when adult Found in silty habitat and on sheltered reefs and in lagoons. To depths
of 30 m. Length to 8 cm.

A B
A
A. timorensis. Sanur, Bali. D. 1 m. L. 10 cm. A. timorensis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 1 m. Length 9 cm.
A. monochrous. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 8 cm.

Black Cardinalfish Apogon melas

Apogon melas Bleeker, 1848. Sumbawa.

Widespread west Pacific, southern Japan to northern

Australia. Shallow well protected coastal bays, commonly
found under jetties, hiding in dark areas. Length to 10 cm.

B C
A. monochrous. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 6 cm. A. monochrous. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 8 cm.

Moluccen Cardinalfish Apogon moluccensis

Apogon moluccensis Valenciennes, 1832. Ambon, Indonesia.
A. ventrifasciatus Allen, Kuiter & Randall, 1994.

Queensland to Philippines and Papua New Guinea. Variable and has different colour
A B
patterns prior to spawning or when feeding. Dark brown with dusky head and back
to pale grey or yellowish with dusky barring ventrally on sides, and distinctive white A. melas. Pulau Putri, Java. D. 4 m. L. 10 cm. Night. A. melas. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 10 cm.
spot at end of second dorsal fin base. Double white line from tip of snout through
eyes. Common coastal species, usually in silty habitat on mudslopes and in lagoons. Three-spot Cardinalfish Apogon trimaculatus False Three-spot Cardinalfish Apogon rhodopterus
To depths of 25 m. Length to 9 cm. Apogon trimaculatus Cuvier, 1828. Moluccas, Indonesia. Apogon rhodopterus Bleeker, 1852. Singapore.

Widespread Indo-west Pacific. Adults dusky, juveniles lighter with more Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and northern tip of Australia. Easily con-
distinct banding and first dorsal fin black and white. Mainly coastal reef fused with A. trimaculatus but lacks opercle spot. Clear coastal and
slopes and walls, secretive, usually coming out on dusk. To 20 m depth. inner reefs, secretive in crevices during the day, out at night. Usually
A Length to 14 cm. seen solitary. To 20 m depth. Length to 15 cm.
A. moluccensis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 8 cm.

B C
A. moluccensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 9 cm. A. moluccensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 8 cm. A. trimaculatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 12 cm. A. rhodopterus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm.

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 Ghost Cardinalfish Apogon bandanensis Half-banded Cardinalfish Apogon semiornatus Night Cardinalfish Apogon doryssa
Apogon bandanensis Bleeker, 1854. Banda. Apogon semiornatus Peters, 1876. Zanzibar. Apogon doryssa Jordan & Seale, 1906. Japan.

Indonesia to Palau. Leading edge of ventral fin clearly Widespread Indo-west Pacific. Transparent-red with broad black half- Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Second spine in first dorsal fin
pale-blue. Sheltered coastal bays and lagoons, often with bands, one from snout to anal fin and other above end of first to end of thick and tall, almost reaching end of second dorsal fin base, when folded
rock piles, to depths of 10 m. Length to 10 cm. caudal fin. Rocky and rubble reef, secretive under pieces or in the back down. Common on coastal reef slopes and walls but usually only found at
of low caves. Shallow to 30 m depth. Length to 75 mm. night to depths of 25 m. Length to about 65 mm.

A B A. semiornatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 22 m. Length 6 cm. A. doryssa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 45 mm.
A. bandanensis. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 8 cm. A. bandanensis. Maumere, Flores. D. 5 m. L. 10 cm.
Ceram Cardinalfish Apogon ceramensis Coastal Cardinalfish Apogon lateralis
Yellow-edged Cardinalfish Apogon sp 11 Apogon ceramensis Bleeker, 1852. Ceram, Indonesia. Apogon lateralis Valenciennes, 1832. Vanicolo.
Widespread tropical West Pacific and eastern Indian
West Pacific, Indonesia to southern Japan. A small species with round- Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Deep-bodied, head profile
Ocean. Yellow outer margins on median fins. Body with
ed head profile. Female with small black post-orbital spot. Mainly in slightly concave. Silvery, a thin black mid-lateral line curving slightly
many dusky bars. Coastal to outer reef lagoons, usually
mangrove zones and well protected coastal bays with low salinity, upwards anteriorly, and small black caudal-base spot. Coastal marine
forming small groups in dense branching corals to depths
amongst rocks in depths of a few metres. Length to 85 mm. waters to depths of 30 m, forming small schools. Length to 11 cm.
of 15 m. Length to 10 cm.

A B
A. sp 11. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 8 cm. A. sp 11. Maumere, Flores. D. 4 m. L. 10 cm.

Guam Cardinalfish Apogon guamensis Samoan Cardinalfish Apogon savayensis A. ceramensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 0.5 m. Length 6 cm. A. lateralis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 4 m. Length 85 mm.
Apogon guamensis Valenciennes, 1852, Guam. Apogon savayensis Günther, 1872. Savay, Samoa.
Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific, several easily confused Widespread Indo-west Pacific. Line angling away below eye thick. Caudal Lagoon Cardinalfish Apogon perlitus Blue-spotted Cardinalfish Apogon sp 13
species. Mostly plain grey or brownish grey, some indistinct barring peduncle with black saddle, fading below lateral line. Protected coastal and Apogon perlitus Fraser & Lachner, 1985. Palau.
and line angling away from below eye thin. Shallow protected bays seaward reef slopes in oceanic locations, to 15 m depth. Secretive and
and lagoons amongst rocks or rubble to ~10 m. Length to 85 mm. rarely seen during day time. Length to 10 cm. West Pacific, Palau and north Western Australia. White spot at end of Known from tropical Japan to northern Papua New Guinea to eastern
second dorsal fin base, dark snout spot. A black area above anal fin and Australia, but probably widespread West Pacific. Adults with small blue
dusky gular area. Coastal, often silty reefs or shallow lagoons, forming spots or vertical dashes on sides. Only posterior part of abdomen
schools just above branching corals. Length to 50 mm. reflexctive. Length to 50 mm.

A. guamensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 5 m. Length 10 cm. A. savayensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 7 m. Length 10 cm. A. perlitus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 45 mm. A. sp 13. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 4 m. Length 45 mm.

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 Long-spine Cardinalfish Apogon leptacanthus Banggai Cardinalfish Pterapogon kauderni
Apogon leptacanthus Bleeker, 1856. Ternate. Pterapogon kauderni Koumans, 1933. Banggai Islands, Indonesia.

Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Tall first dorsal fin, eyes Originally only known from the Banggai Islands, central-east Sulawesi,
blue. Coastal to outer reef lagoons in rich coral growth, espe- but aquarists have released this fish in other areas. It’s unique amongst
cially amongst staghorn corals, often in large schools. Disperses marine fishes in not just incubating eggs in mouth, like other cardinal-
at night to feed near the bottom. Length to 6 cm. fishes, but harbouring its young in the mouth after hatching for several
days. It has very large eggs, measuring 2,5 mm in diameter, and few,
numbering about 20. Such specialisation is the reason for its limited dis-
tribution and in contrast to wide-ranging species such as Apogon
fleurieu that has numerous tiny eggs. Pterapogon kauderni schools near
long-spined urchins in mixed reef/seagrass habitat in shallow depths,
just below low tide mark to about 2 m. Juveniles also use anemones for
protection. Length to 7 cm.
A
A
A. leptacanthus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 6 cm.
P. kauderni. Banggai Island. Eastern Sulawesi. G.R. ALLEN.

B
B C
A. leptacanthus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 3 m. Length 55 mm.
P. kauderni. Hongkong Aquarium. Gravid female. Length 7 cm. P. kauderni. Banggai Island. Eastern Sulawesi. G.R. ALLEN.

Blue-barred Cardinalfish Apogon sp 13

Only known from Flores, Indonesia. In Kuiter, 1992 as Apogon

sp. 9 (P. 64-C). Closely related to A. gilberti from the Philippines
and north-western Australia, and probably found in Indonesia as
well. Fisrt dorsal fin blue. Neither sex has black spot on opercu-
lum that distinguishes the other species. Shallow coastal man-
grove zones to lagoons, forming schools among mangrove roots
of in large staghorn corals to depths of 15 m. Length to 50 mm.

A. sp 13. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length 50 mm.

Cave Cardinalfish Apogon evermanni

Apogon evermanni Jordan & Snyder, 1904. Hawaii.

Circum-tropical distribution, but most likely as a complex of sev-

eral similar species. Body elongate, yellow or reddish brown.
Black stripe through eye. white spot, headed by black area,
behind second dorsal fin. Body scales small and those forming
lateral line enlarged. Clear coastal to outer reef habitat, usually
in large caves, swimming upside-down on ceilings (pictures
inverted). Japanese population appears to be different in colour
and body depth, also the fish swims normally the right way up.
Depth range: shallow to at least 70 m, but usually over 25 m.
Length to 12 cm. D
A. evermanni. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 12 cm. P. kauderni. Banggai Island. Eastern Sulawesi. G.R. ALLEN.

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 Polka-dot Cardinalfish Sphaeramia orbicularis Pyjama CardinalfishSphaeramia nematoptera Faint-lined Cardinalfish Archamia macroptera
Apogon orbicularis Kuhl & Van Hasselt, 1828. Java, Indonesia. Apogon nematopterus Bleeker, 1856. Ambon, Indonesia. Apogon macropterus Cuvier & Valenciennes, 1828. Java.
Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific, but not recorded from Australia. Widespread tropical west Pacific. Distinctive species with tall fins and Widespread tropical West Pacific. Snout without stripes. White
Mainly light grey and narrow black band from front of first dorsal fin to brightly coloured red eyes. Broad black central body band and head yel- tip on anal fin distinctive. Occurs in estuaries and sheltered
abdomen, and many small black spots on head and body. Sheltered low. Sheltered coastal reef slopes and rich coral lagoons. Forms large coastal bays. Congregates in large schools, usually floating just
bays in mangroves and harbours, usually swimming near the surface, schools in branching corals during the day. To depths of about 10 m. above extensive beds of branching corals, to depth of 15 m.
commonly around jetty pylons. Length to 75 mm. Length to 85 mm. Length to 10 cm.

A B
A. macroptera. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 10 cm. A. macroptera. Amed, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 10 cm.

Girdled Cardinalfish Archamia zosterophora

Apogon zosterophorus Bleeker, 1856. Ambon.

Widespread West Pacific. Some geographical variations. Usually

a black band below second dorsal fin, but highly variable in
S. orbicularis. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 1 m. Length 75 mm. S. nematoptera. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 45 mm. width and may fade to barely a trace, or is completely absent. In
Japanese and Indian Ocean populations the band is usually nar-
row and often absent. Best identified by the two vertical orange
Painted Cardinalfish Archamia fucata stripes over gills and distinctive black peduncular spot. Adults
Apogon fucatus Cantor, 1850. Pinang, Malaysia. common in shallow depths. Schools over corals on reef slopes
and sometimes deep with black coral along reef walls to at least
Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Variable species in relation to
45 m. Length to 70 mm.
habitat. Black peduncular spot, usually large and round in adults, A
maybe absent during spawning time. Yellow snout with blue lines. A. zosterophora. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 7 cm.
Various habitats from still coastal reefs to outer reef lagoons and walls
to depths of 35 m. Length to 10 cm.

A B B C
A. fucata. Manado, Sulawesi. Depth 7 m. Length 65 mm. A. fucata. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 85 mm. A. zosterophora. Pulau Putri, Java. D. 8 m. L. 7 cm. A. zosterophora. Pulau Weh, Sumatra. D. 6 m. L. 6 cm. G.R. ALLEN.

Ear-blotch Cardinalfish Archamia biguttata Gon’s Cardinalfish Archamia bleekeri

Archamia biguttata Lachner, 1951. Philippines. Apogon bleekeri Günther, 1859. Ambon, Moluccas.
Archamia goni Shen & Chao, 1993. Taiwan.
West Pacific, throughout Indonesia, ranging to
southern Japan and Samoa, but identity of latter Little known species, but appears to be widespread if all those
needs to be checked. Large black spot behind head seen in photographs from different localities represent a single
above eye-level and usually a marginally smaller one species. Colour pattern, the black peduncular spot and with two
on caudal-base, however, latter can be turned on or faint longitudinal lines, is similar to semi-adult A. mozam-
off at will. Usually a broad angular band below the biquensis. Coastal, mangrove zones and thought to enter rivers,
eye. Also called Two-spot Cardinalfish. Shallow but also found with shipwrecks in deeper water laying on muddy
coastal reef crests with rich soft coral growth, shel- substrates. Length to 10 cm.
tering among the corals and in caves, usually in less
that 10 m depth. Length to 10 cm.

A. biguttata. Manado, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 65 mm. A. bleekeri. Singaraja, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length 60 mm.

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 Fo Cardinalfish Apogonichthys fo Flame Cardinalfish Apogonichthys amblyuropterus
Foa fo Jordan & Seale, 1906. Samoa. Apogon amblyuropterus. Bleeker, 1852. Ceram.

Probably widespread tropical west Pacific. Usually Only known from Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Philippines.
referred to as Foa brachygramma by most authors, a Recognised by its almost uniformly orange colour and markings in the
Hawaiian species. Colour highly variable from greyish dorsal and ventral fins. Coastal reefs and lagoons, in depths to 15 m.
brown to almost black with light speckles. Usually Secretive in corals, comes out at night but stays close to bottom.
some white blotches on axil, typically 3 on caudal fin Length to 40 mm.
base and some indistinct dusky vertical barring.
Enters estuaries and quiet coastal bays, usually on
open mud or silty substrate with algae-rocky out-
crops or isolated soft corals. Length to 40 mm.

A. amblyuropterus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 4 m. Length 40 mm.

Eight-spine Cardinalfish Neamia octospina

Neamia octospina Smith & Radcliffe, 1912.
Palawan, Philippines.

Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific from east Africa to northern

Australia and southern Japan. Creamish translucent white or pinkish
with short brown bands radiating from eye. Caudal fin rounded. Occurs
B on inshore reefs to 20 m depth. Secretive among boulders or under
A. fo. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 4 m. L. 40 mm. debris. Length to 7 cm.

N. octospina. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 4 m. L. 55 mm. Akira OGAWA.

Peppered Cardinalfish Fowleria punctulata

Apogon punctulatus Rüppell, 1838. Massaua, Red Sea.

Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Body pale to reddish brown with

longitudinal series of black spots on sides. Eye yellow. White-rimmed
black ocellus on operculum. Very cryptic and rarely seen, including at
C
night. Coastal mud flats and reefs to 10 m depth. Length to 9 cm.
A A. fo. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 40 mm.
A. fo. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 35 mm. Brooding male. Taketomo SHIRATORI.

F. punctulata. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 5 m. Length 55 mm.

Flores Cardinalfish Apogonichthys perdix Gentle Cardinalfish Apogonichthys ahimsa
Apogonichthys perdix Bleeker, 1854. Flores, Indonesia. Apogonichthys ahimsa Whitley, 1959. Heron Island, Qld.
Eared Cardinalfish Fowleria marmorata Variegated Cardinalfish Fowleria variegata
Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific from east Africa to northern Known from type-locality and included photographic locations, but it Apogonichthys marmoratus Alleyne & Macleay, 1877. Apogon variegatus Valenciennes, 1832. Mauritius.
Australia and southern Japan, and as far as Hawaii, but records often appears to be widespread or comprises a species-complex. Body with Cape Grenville, Queensland, Australia.
based on misidentifications of other small species. Pale to olive-brown vertical dusky bands on body, slightly angling on caudal peduncle. A Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific, ranging into sub-tropical zones.
with irregular dark streaked spots. Fins with red and white speckles. A series of small dark spots along scale row below dorsal fin bases in Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Usually pink with about 10 Light to dark brown, near black, with variable black spotting on body
distinctive small white spot centrally at base of caudal fin. Secretive on female. Secretive and usually only seen at night in small caves or brown bars, and fins red. A reflective black to bluish grey spot, some- and fins, creating variegated pattern on body and irregular stripes in
clear inshore reefs. Length to 5 cm. crevices. Length to 40 mm. times rimmed with white, on operculum. Lateral line incomplete. Clear fins. Black ‘ear’ operculum spot sometimes rimmed with white. Very
coastal to outer reefs in mixed rich coral and algae rubble slopes. Rarely cryptic and rarely seen, even at night, but generally is a common
seen during the day, staying close to shelter at night. To depths of about species that is often collected. Coastal reefs in dead reef and rubble to
20 m. Length to 75 mm. 10 m depth. Length to 8 cm.

A. perdix. Gilimanuk, Bali. D6 1 m. L. 6 cm. Alex STEFFE. A. ahimsa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 45 mm. F. marmorata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 65 mm. F. variegata. Sydney, Australia. Depth 3 m. Length 65 mm.

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 Mimic Cardinalfish Cheilodipterus nigrotaeniatus Pacific Tiger Cardinalfish Cheilodipterus heptazona
Cheilodipterus nigrotaeniatus Smith & Radcliffe, 1912. Philippines. Cheilodipterus heptazona Bleeker, 1849. Jakarta, Indonesia.
West Pacific from Philippines along east New Guinea to Solomon Island Widespread tropical west Pacific. Previously included with C.
and Great Barrier Reef. Mimics Meiacanthus species. They swim openly macrodon (=lineatus), from the Indian Ocean. Juveniles with broad
over sand or rubble patches near reefs like its model but if approached it black caudal base and few black lines along body. Coastal to outer
quickly swims to the cover of reefs. In addition to looks, it swims in sim- reefs walls, in caves and ledges, adults usually in pairs or small
ilar fashion to the model blenny by using its tail to swim, rather than the groups comprising several pairs, juveniles solitary or small groups.
pectoral fins. Only close examination reveales the different mouth shape To depths of at least 20 m. Length to 16 cm.
and the apogonid has two separate dorsal fins, whilst the blenny has a
long continues single fin. To depths of 20 m. Length to 10 cm.
A
C. nigrotaeniatus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L 10 cm.

B C MODEL (BLENNY)
C. nigrotaeniatus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L 10 cm. Meiacanthus grammistes. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L 9 cm.

A B
Singapore Cardinalfish Cheilodipterus singapurensis Eight-lined Cardinalfish Cheilodipterus octolineatus
C. hepatazona. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 16 cm. C. heptazona. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 4 m. Length 15 cm.
Cheilodipterus singapurensis Bleeker, 1859. Singapore. Paramia octolineata Bleeker, 1872.Indonesia.

Widespread West Pacific. A small white spot at end of base of second Eastern Indonesia and New Guinea. Similar to C. lineatus in the Red Inbetween Cardinalfish
dorsal fin that is distinctive in juveniles and maybe absent in large indi- Sea and western Indian Ocean. Coastal coral-rock walls, at dusk float- Cheilodipterus intermedius
viduals. Common coastal species in silty habitats in amongst boulders ing near small crevices, usually seen solitary, to depths of 20 m. This
in seagrass areas, juveniles among urchin spines. Usually shallow, species grows much larger than heptozona, commonly reaching 22 Cheilodipterus intermedius Gon, 1994.
observed to 10 m depth. Length to 18 cm. cm. Okinawa, Japan.

Widespread(?) Indo-west Pacific. Similar to C. hep-

tazona, but lacking yellow on snout, and C. octolin-
eatus, but without black tip on dorsal fin. Stripes
grey and interspaces narrow when adult. Juveniles
and sub-adults with large yellow area on caudal
peduncle with a small black spot in its centre.
Coastal reefs and deep lagoons, solitary in caves to
20 m depth. Length to 20 cm, usually 18 cm south
of Japan.
C. intermedius. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 12 m. Length 15 cm.

C. singapurensis. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 8 m. L 12 cm. C. octolineatus. Maumere, Flores. D. 15 m. L 22 cm. Pacific Arrow-tooth Cardinalfish
Cheilodipterus sp 1
Five-line Cardinalfish Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus Toothy Cardinalfish Cheilodipterus isostigma Widespread west Pacific. Peduncular spot small,
Cheilodipterus quinquelineatus Cuvier, 1828. Society Islands. Cheilodipterops isostigma Schultz, 1940. New Guinea. up to pupil size. Peduncle blotch yellow around
spot in young, but sometimes the area is dusky in
Widespread Indo-west Pacific. Common species in various habitats Philippines to southern Indonesia. Has large canines at inner part of
large adults, hiding the spot. All fins clear. Common
from silty coastal reefs to outer reef walls to about 25 m. In corals and lower jaw. Clear coastal to outer reef lagoon slopes with good coral
species in estuarine coastal bays and lagoons,
caves, usually forming small groups. Length to 10 cm. growth. Usually in small groups among staghorn corals to 20 m depth.
among branching corals or boulders with urchins,
Length to 11 cm.
sometimes forming great schools in shaded areas
during the day. Usually very shallow, but to depths
of 15 m. Length to 18 cm.

A B
C. quinquelineatus. Tulamben, Bali. D. 10 m. L 10 cm. C. isostigma. Maumere, Flores. D. 3 m. L 10 cm. C. sp 1. Gilimanuk, Bali. D 7 m. L. 10 cm. C. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 4 m. Length 15 cm.

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 Slender Cardinalfish Rhabdamia gracilis Indonesian Doubles Cardinalfish Rhabdamia spilota Hayashi’s Cardinalfish Pseudamia hayashii Charcoal-banded Cardinalfish Pseudamia zonata
Apogonichthys gracilis Bleeker, 1856. Moluccas. Rhabdamia spilota Allen & Kuiter, 1994. Bali, Indonesia. Pseudamia hayashii Randall, Lachner & Fraser, 1985. Japan. Pseudamia zonata Randall, Lachner & Fraser, 1985. Philippines.

Widespread Indo-west Pacific. Translucent white and silvery on abdomen. Known from Bali and Flores. Semi-transparent with white abdomen Widespread tropical Indo-west Pacific. Light grey to dusky brown, caudal Southern Japan to Bali and Fiji, Indonesia. Lives far in the back of caves,
Black tips on caudal fin, largest on upper, and a small black peduncular and 1 or 2 darks spots above pectoral fin base. Swims in tight pairs, fin usually darker than body. Various habitats from coastal reef slopes to usually where little light is left, in depths between 10 and 30 m. Large
spot, placed well below centre. Sheltered coastal reefs to outer reef usually in loose groups swimming actively during the day above iso- outer reefs from very shallow depths to at least 65 m. Length to 10 cm. species in genus, length to 21 cm.
lagoons, usually in small schools near coral bommies. Feeds during the lated coral heads to feed on zooplankton, or with reef structures on
day in currents above reef as well as at night. Length to 60 mm. sand and mud slopes in depths of 17-45 m. Length to 60 mm.

R. gracilis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 60 mm. R. spilota. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 35 m. Length 60 mm. P. hayahii. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 85 mm. P. zonata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 15 cm.

Nose-spot Cardinalfish Rhabdamia cypselura Frail Cardinalfish Cercamia cladara White-jaw Cardinalfish Pseudamia amblyuroptera Tail-spot Cardinalfish Pseudamia gelatinosa
Rhabdamia cypselurus Weber, 1909. Ceram, Indonesia. Cercamia cladara Randall & Smith, 1988. Rapa, South Pacific. Cheilodipterus amblyuropterus Bleeker, 1856. Buru, Indonesia. Pseudamia gelatinosa Smith, 1955. Aldabra.

Widespread Indo-west Pacific. During the day in large caves or with West to central Pacific. Two patches of black spots behind the eyes that Indonesia to Philippines and Solomon Islands. Jaws white below eye Widespread Indo-west Pacific. Brownish-grey with fine lines along
large coral bommies, often forming large dense schools. Spreads out are above each other. Very secretive, solitary in clear coastal reefs with with small black spot. Shallow estuaries and mangroves near freshwa- scale rows and dark spots scattered over body and head. Protected
at night, floating mid-water to catch plankton. Coastal reef slopes to mixed algae and rich coral growth. Comes out at night only, usually ter run-offs, usually in depths less than 2 m. Length to 85 mm. coastal bays and harbours, shallow to 40 m depth. Length to 11 cm.
outer reef drop-offs to depths of 50 m, usually adjacent to deep water. seen drifting above sand patches. In depths between 6 and 40 m.
Length to 60 mm. Length to about 45 mm.

P. amblyuroptera. Aquarium, Indonesia. Length 75 mm. P. gelatinosa. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 65 mm.

Slender Siphonfish Siphamia elongata Short Siphonfish Siphamia fistulosa

Siphamia elongata Lachner, 1953. Philippines. Foa fistulosa Weber, 1909. Bima Bay, Sumbawa Isl, Indonesia.
R. cypselura. Manado, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 50 mm. C. cladara. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 35 mm.
Known from Philippines, Borneo and Bali, but probably more wide- Caudal Peduncle deep and long. Caudal fin small. Has 7 spines in
Red-nose Cardinalfish Gymnapogon philippinus Naked Cardinalfish Gymnapogon annona spread. Grey or brown-blotched pattern with white interspaces and first dorsal fin and general colour of fish is yellowish brown with
Australaphia annona Whitley, 1936. Queensland, Australia. spots. Coastal, silty habitat on reefs amongst branching corals or with silvery speckles. Philippines to northern Indonesian waters. Length
Gymnapogon philippinus Herre, 1953. Philippines.
long-spined urchins, in depths to at least 15 m. Length to 45 mm. to about 40 mm.
Southern Japan to Indonesia. Body and fins clear without any obvious Queensland, Australia. Pale-yellow translucent with yellow fins and eye
markings. Head reddish and eyes dark. Rarely noticed because of small green-blue. Shallow coastal reefs, nocturnal. Length to 50 mm.
size. Length to 50 mm.

G. philippinus. Sangihe Islands. D. 8 m. L 45 mm. G. annona?. Maumere, Flores. D. 6 m. L 45 mm. S. elongata. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 30 mm. S. fistulosa. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. D. 8 m. L. 4 cm. S. MICHAEL.

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 Two-spot Urchin Cardinalfish Siphamia tubifer WHITINGS - SILLAGINIDAE
Siphamia tubifer Weber, 1909. Timor, Indonesia

Only known from the Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia. Body usually plain A small but important commercial family of edible fishes. They are not commonly seen by divers and mainly inhabit estuaries and
brown to black, but two distinctive white spots following dorsal fin bases open sandy bays where they school and feed by digging in the substrate for small invertebrates. Most species are silvery with dusky
that distinguishes this species from similar dark ones. It can change quick- or greenish backs and have slender bodies, typically as the included species below.
ly from black to silver-white or dusky with black longitudinal stripes. The
stripes, when visible, are variable depending on habitat or host, but are nar-
rower than pale interspaces. This species forms small groups with long- Sand Whiting Sillago sihama
spined urchins. Coastal reefs and outer reef lagoons. Moderately large, Atherina sihama Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
length to 50 mm.
A Indo-West Pacific. Several similar species throughout
S. tubifer. Maumere, Flores. Depth 7 m. Length 40 mm. the region. This species has a low lateral line with about
70 scales. Usually schooling along sandy beaches and in
sheltered bays. Length to about 30 cm.

B
B C
S. sihama. A South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 2 m. Length 30 cm. B Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 3 m.
S. tubifer. Rinca I., Komodo. Depth 10 m. Length 35 mm. Both colour-forms are present in C.

Philippines Urchin Cardinalfish Siphamia fuscolineata BLANQUILLOS & TILEFISHES - MALACANTHIDAE

Siphamia fuscolineata Lachner, 1953. Philippines.
A small group of distinctive fishes with 2 genera that each are known as blanquillos with 3 species and tilefishes with about 10
West Pacific, known for certain from southern Japan to Indonesia and species. The Tilefishes are deep-dwelling and most species were recently described. All are use self-made burrows and some species
Micronesia. Plain dark brown to black, showing a lined pattern on occasion, built large rubble mounts. The blanguillos have pelagic young and have a broad geographical range.
and usually when caught or as juveniles. Black lines slightly broader in
width to pale interspaces. Sometimes confused with the striped form of
Siphamia tubifer or S. versicolor, that has narrower black lines. Associates Blue Blanquillo Malacanthus latovittatus
A with long-spined echinoderms, urchins and stars. Usually in small groups Labrus latovittatus Lacepède, 1801. Indo-Pacific.
S. fuscolineata. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 7 m. Length 35 mm.
among spines of host. Sheltered reefs and lagoons, usually less than 10 m
depth. Length to 35 mm. Indo-West Pacific, ranging to sub-tropical waters.
Juveniles solitary, adults usually in pairs. They swim
often high above the substrate to pick prey from the sub-
strate with their excellent eye-sight. Reef flats to about
25 m depth. Length to 40 cm.

A B
B M. latovittatus. Juvenile, ~5 cm. Tulamben, Bali. M. latovittatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 35 cm.
S. fuscolineata. Okinawa, Japan. Toshikazu KOZAWA.
Flagtail Blanquillo Malacanthus brevirostris
Malacanthus brevirostris Guichenot, 1848. Madagascar.

Indo-West Pacific, ranging to sub-tropical waters.

Juveniles and adults similar. Easily recognised by the
plain body and distinctive black stripes in the tail. Occurs
on sand and rubble patches along reef edges. Juveniles
solitary and adults often in loose aggregations. Has
pelagic stage to at least 5 cm, hence smaller juveniles are
not seen on the substrate. Reported to 30 cm, but usual-
C D
ly length to 20 cm.
S. fuscolineata. Juveniles. Okinawa, Japan. Toshikazu KOZAWA. S. fuscolineata, brooding male. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 5 m. Michihiko Yamada. M. brevirostris. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm.

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 Blue-head Tilefish Hoplolatilus starcki Cameleon Tilefish Hoplolatilus chlupatyi Green Tilefish Hoplolatilus cuniculus
Hoplolatilus starcki Randall & Dooley, 1974. Guam. Hoplolatilus chlupatyi Klausewitz et all, 1978. Philippines. Hoplolatilus cuniculus Randall & Dooley, 1974.Tahiti.

Widespread West Pacific. Small juveniles bright blue, Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Several colour forms, changinh colours Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Rubble slopes, usually over 30 m depth.
often swimming anthiids along reef edges. Adults quickly. Rubble slopes, over 40 m depth. Length to 11 cm. Sometimes in loose groups. Length to 15 cm.
typically along drop-offs in depth over 20 m. Usually
in pairs. Length to 20 cm.

A B
H. starcki. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm. H. starcki. Derawan, Kalimantan. D. 8 m. L. 6 cm. H. chlupatyi. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 42 m. Length 10 cm. H. cuniculus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 11 cm.

Blue-saddled Tilefish Purple Tilefish Hoplolatilus purpureus Yellow Tilefish Hoplolatilus luteus
Hoplolatilus fronticinctus Hoplolatilus purpureus Burgess, 1978. Philippines. Hoplolatilus luteus Allen & Kuiter, 1989. Flores.
Latilus fronticinctus Günther, 1887. Mauritius. Philippines to Indonesia and to Solomon Islands. Deep along reef Flores to Bali. Deep inner reef and coastal sand to muddy flats. Usually
Widespread West Pacific Similar or identical species edges. Length to 12 cm. in pairs and has small burrow. Length to 10 cm.
in Indian Ocean. Deep sand and rubble reefs, usually
in excess of 40 m depth. Builts large rubble mounts.
Length to 20 cm.

A
H. fronticinctus. Nusa Penida. Depth 50 m. Length 18 cm.

H. purpureus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 45 m. Length 14 cm. H. luteus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 32 m. Length 10 cm.

COBIA - RACHYCENTRIDAE
Represented by a single pelagic species, found in all tropical seas. Juveniles striped and similar to blanquillos when small, and like
remoras when of similar size. Adults often curious towards divers and may rush in on the noise, and its shark-like appearance
causing a scare.

Cobia Rachycentron canadum

B
Gasterosteus canadus Linnaeus, 1766. Carolina, U.S.A.
H. fronticinctus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 55 m. Adult with its rubble mount, about 1 m across.
Global in all tropical to sub-tropical seas. Bronze to black over
Red-stripe Tilefish Hoplolatilus marcosi the back, lighter below. Sometimes known as Black Kingfish.
Hoplolatilus marcosi Burgess, 1978. Philippines. Forms small groups and may persue small pelagics inshore.
Length to 40 cm.
Philippines to Indonesia and to Solomon Islands.
Easily recognised by the red stripe, but this looks
black in deep water. Usually lives in very deep water
adjacent to reef drop-offs on rubble-sand flats. Builts
large rubble mounts. Length to 12 cm.

A B
H. marcosi. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 50 m. Length 12 cm. R. canadum. Maumere, Flores. D. 15 m. Juvenile, ~45 cm. R. canadum. Aquarium, Japan. Adults, about 1.4 m.

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 SUCKERFISHES - ECHENEIDAE TREVALLIES - CARANGIDAE
A small distinctive family with 4 genera and 8 pelagic species with a global dis- Short Suckerfish Remora remora A large and commercially very important family, represented with approximately 25 genera and 140 species in tropical and sub-trop-
tribution, easily recognised by the large sucker disk on top of the head. The disk Echeneis remora Linnaeus, 1758. Indian Ocean. ical seas. Primarily pelagics, but most have a loose association with coastal habitats, especially when juvenile. They are fast swim-
is the result of a highly modified spinous dorsal fin, comprising transverse mers and many migrate over great distances. All species are valued as food fish and the large species are often targetted for game.
moveable laminae, and is used for attaching to large fish such as sharks and Globally in tropical seas. Mainly occurs in oceanic
rays, but may attach to anything in open water. Opportunist feeders, often gain- locations and well off-shore. Juveniles occasional-
ly inshore, but their occurrance there may be the
ing bits from feeding host, but also may take parasitic crustaceans from the host.
result of large fish on which they were on being Giant Trevally Caranx ignobilis
Juveniles are sometimes inshore and attached to some of the larger reef fishes. caught and towed behind boats to harbours. Scomber ignobilis Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
Length to 80 cm.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Large adults
often seen cruising near the bottom of coastal
slopes in search for reef fishes that venture too
far from their hide-out, catching them by sur-
prise. It’s the largest trevally, reaching 1.7 m in
length and a weight of over 60 kg.

A
C. ignobilis. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 6 m. Juvenile, ~30 cm.

R. remora. Bermagui, NSW, Australia. Inshore, un-attached, depth 1 m. Juvenile, length 20 cm.

Slender Suckerfish Echeneis naucrates

Echeneis naucrates Linnaeus, 1758.
Indian Ocean.

Globally in tropical seas. Most commonly observed

species, and juveniles are often away from a host
in groups in shallow lagoons. Also known as
shark-remora or striped suckerfish. Length to 1 m.

B
A C. ignobilis. Nusa Penida. Depth 4 m. Length 1.5 m.
E. naucrates. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 45 cm.

Black Trevally Caranx lugrubris

Caranx lugubris Poey, 1860. Cuba

Widespread and reported from all tropical seas.

Variable from grey to almost black. Scutes mid-
laterally along the body and always black.
Readily identified by colour and deep body
shape. Clear coastal reef slopes and along deep
drop-offs. Usually seen solitary or in small
numbers. Length to 80 cm.

B C
E. naucrates. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 45 cm. E. naucrates. Tulamben, Bali. D. 15 m. L. 20 cm. A juve-
Close-up of disk on top of head. nile on the photographer’s fin, showing underside. C. lugrubris. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm.

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 Big-eye Trevally Caranx sexfasciatus Black-tip Trevally Caranx heberi Brassy Trevally Caranx papuensis
Scomber sexfasciatus Quoy & Gaimard, 1825. Scomber heberi Bennett, 1833. Sri Lanka. Caranx papuensis Alleyne & Macleay, 1877. PNG.
Waigeo, Indonesia.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Identified by black tipped caudal fin. Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Plain silvery, but upper lobe of caudal
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. The most commonly Coastal sand flats with scattered reef patches. Length to 85 cm. fin dark. Swims high over bottom. Length to 75 cm.
observed species that congregates in dense schools
in the shelter of reefs. Juveniles inshore and in man-
groves when small. Length to 85 cm.

C. heberi. East of Singaraja, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 40 cm. C. papuensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 50 cm.
A
C. sexfasciatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm. Akira OGAWA.
Aldabra Trevally Carangichthys dinema Coach-whip Trevally Carangichthys oblongus
Carangoides dinema Bleeker, 1851. Java. Caranx oblongus Cuvier, 1833. Vanikoro.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. No filament on anal fin. Clear water sand Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Anal fin with filament as well as on dor-
flats, usually in small groups. Length to 85 cm. sal. Coastal mud flats, usually in small schools. Length to 75 cm.

B C. dinema. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 40 cm. C. oblongus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm.
C. sexfasciatus. Sipadan. Depth 10 m. Length 80 cm.
Gold-spotted Trevally
Blue-fin Trevally Caranx melampygus Caranx bajad
Caranx melampygus Cuvier, 1833. Waigeo. Scomber ferdau var. bajad
Forsskål, 1775, Red Sea.
Widespread and reported from all tropical seas.
Adults speckled with dark spot. Juveniles have yel- Widespread Indo-West Pacific. A com-
low pectoral fins. Clear coastal to outer reef slopes mon species along coastal reef slopes or
and along deep drop-offs. Usually solitary or in around large coral heads in lagoons. Has
small numbers, often following benthic feeders xanthic form that is often seen in muddy
such as lethrinids, when disturbing the bottom, to bays in mixes in with schools. Juveniles
catch fleeing prey. Length to 80 cm. solitary in sheltered coastal bays. Length
to 45 cm.

A B
C. melampygus. Tulamben, Bali. A Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm. B Depth 10 m. Length 30 cm. C. bajad. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm. Both colour forms.

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 Bar-cheek Trevally Carangoides plagiotaenia Yellow-spotted Trevally Carangoides fulvoguttatus Long-nose Trevally Carangoides chrysophrys Blue-spined Trevally Carangoides caeruleopinnatus
Carangoides plagiotaenia Bleeker, 1857. Ambon. Scomber fulvoguttatus Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Caranx chrysophrys Cuvier, 1833. Seychelles. Caranx caeruleopinnatus Rüppell, 1830. Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Identified by dusky bar on cheek. Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Yellow spots scattered along upper Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Extended anal fin lobe. Coastal reefs and Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Yellow spots scattered along upper
Coastal slopes, usually solitary. Length to 45 cm. sides. Single or small groups, clear water reefs. Length to 50 cm. bays, usually in small groups. Length to 60 cm. sides. Solitary, inshore reefs in protected bays. Length to 40 cm.

C. plagiotaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 40 cm. C. fulvoguttatus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 15 m. Length 50 cm.

Bludger Trevally Carangoides gymnostethus Thick-lip Trevally Carangoides orthogrammus

C. chrysophrys. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm. C. caeruleopinnatus. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 3 m. L. 25 cm.
Caranx gymnostethus Cuvier, 1833. Seychelles. Caranx orthogrammus Jordan & Gilbert, 1882. Off west Mexico.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Deep offshore reefs but enters large Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Snout bluntly rounded. Coastal slopes Banded Trevally Carangoides ferdau Threadfin Trevally Alectis ciliaris
open bays in small groups. Length to 85 cm. or inner reefs, usually solitary. Length to 75 cm.
Scomber ferdau Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Zeus ciliaris Bloch, 1787. India.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Silvery with dusky bands. Coastal sand Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Juveniles with long trailing filaments, in
and rubble slopes, singly or small groups. Length to 70 cm. surface water. Coastal. Length to 1.3 m.

C. gymnostethus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. D. 15 m. L. 55 cm. C. orthogrammus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm.

Round Trevally Carangoides armatus Onion Trevally Carangoides uii C. ferdau. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 50 cm. A. ciliaris. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 65 mm (excl filam.).
Citula armatus Rüppell, 1830. Red Sea. Caranx (Citula) uii Wakiya, 1924. Kii, Japan.
Golden Trevally Gnathonodon speciosus
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Recognised by the deep body and Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Filamentous dorsal and anal fins.
Scomber speciosus Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
extended fins. Solitary species on inshore reefs. Length to 45 cm. Coastal slopes or inner reefs, usually solitary. Length to 25 cm.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Juveniles yellow with
black bars. Adults become more silvery with age. Young
often swimming with large pelagis as ‘pilot’ fishes, but
also swim in small groups in estuaries and sheltered
bays. Adults move into deep water and may form large
schools in deep water. Length to 1 m.

A B
C. armatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 4 m. L. 20 cm. C. uii. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 15 cm. G. speciosus. Sulawesi. D. 3 m. Juvenile, ~15 cm. G. speciosus. Rinca I., Komodo. Depth 15 m. Adults, about 75 cm.

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 Longfin Kingfish Seriola rivoliana Giant Queenfish Scomberoides commersonnianus Barred Queenfish Scomberoides tala
Seriola rivoliana Valenciennes, 1833. Scomberoides commersonnianus Lacepède, 1801. Madagascar. Chorinemus tala Cuvier, 1832. Malabar, India.
Greek Archipelago.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Mainly off-shore in clear waters, some- Widespread West Pacific and east Indian Ocean. Spots on sides elon-
All tropical oceans, ranging to sub-tropical seas. times along outer reef wall or on sea-mounts. Usually in small groups. gate vertically, forming short bars in adults. Coastal waters, Usually
Known as Amberjack (Australia), Longfin Length to 1.2 m. seen swimming solitary in surface waters. Length to 70 cm.
Yelllowtail (Africa), and Almaco Jack (America).
Oceanic, occasionally visiting reefs. Juveniles
under floating weed rafts. Length to 1 m.

A
S. rivoliana. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1 m. Length 30 cm.

S. commersonnianus. Pelabuhan Ratu, Java. D. 20 m. L. 80 cm. S. tala. Pulau Putri. Depth 1 m. Length 60 cm.

Spotted Dart Trachinotus bailloni

Caesiomorus baillonii Lacepède, 1801.
Madagascar.

Widespread Indo-West Pacifc. Juveniles

form schools in sheltered bays. Adults usu-
ally seen in pairs or small groups in surface
B
waters, patrolling reef edges or beaches.
S. rivoliana. Nusa Lempongan. Depth 27 m. Length 75 cm.
Length to 35 m.

Finny Scad Megalaspis cordyla

Scomber cordyla Linnaeus, 1758.
America.

All tropical oceans, primarily oceanic schooling

species that hunts smaller pelagic fishes. Lives
from surface zones to deep water in pursuit of
prey. Visits reef when clear oceanic waters
move through. Length to 80 cm.

A B
T. baillonii. A Tulamben, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 15 cm. B Maldives. Depth 3 m. Length 35 cm.

Snubnose Dart Trachinotus blochii

Caesiomorus blochii Lacepède, 1801.
Madagascar.

Widespread Indo-West Pacifc. Juveniles in

small schools in the shallows along beach-
es. Adults in deep lagoons or on outer reef
A B flats and usually solitary. Length to 65 cm.
M. cordyla. A Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 65m. Length 80 cm. B Pelabuhan Ratu, south Java, fish market. Length 75 cm.

Double-spotted Queenfish
Scomberoides lysan
Scomber lysan Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacifc. Commonly seen

along coastal reefs and in large lagoons. Usually
cruising along reef edges in surface waters but
may venture into very deep water. Mainly soli-
tary but sometimes forms small loose groups.
Length to 70 cm.

S. lysan. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 1 m. Length 50 cm. T. blochii. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 3 m. L. 25 cm.

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 Black-banded Kingfish Seriolina nigrofasciata Purse-eye Scad Selar crumenophthalmus Yellow-tail Scad Atule mate
Nomeus nigrofasciata Rüppell, 1829. Scomber crumenophthalmus Bloch, 1793. West Africa. Caranx mate Cuvier, 1832. Pondicherry; Seychelles; New Guinea.
Red Sea.
Widespread in all tropical oceans. Lateral-line with long curve to below Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Sheltered coastal bays and estuaries.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Oceanic species, rarely second dorsal fin. Sheltered coastal waters and estuaries. Usually form- Singly or in loose groups. Fast swimming in midwater in pursuit of zoo-
seen inshore. Juveniles under weed rafts and adults are ing large and dense schools. Length to 70 cm. plankton. Length to 30 cm.
sometimes seen with the large planktivores such as
whale sharks. Lenght to 60 cm

A
S. nigrofasciata. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 1 m. Length 45 mm.

S. crumenophthalmus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm. A. mate. Maumere, Flores. D. 3 m. L. 30 cm.

Russell’s Mackerel Scad Decapterus russellii Mackerel Scad Decapterus macarellus

Caranx russellii Rüppell, 1830. Red Sea. Caranx macarellus Cuvier, 1832. Martinique I., West Indies.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Mainly off-shore in clear waters, form- Widespread in all tropical oceans. Forms large schools in deep water.
ing large schools in deep water, but occasionally inshore in sheltered Usually seen as fast moving schools along the reef edges near deep
bays in small to large groups. Length to 35 m. water. Length to 32 cm.

B
S. nigrofasciata. Aquarium, Japan. Length 45 cm.

Trevally Scad Alepes vari Ox-eye Scad Selar boops

Caranx vari Cuvier, 1833. Pondicherry, India. Caranx boops Cuvier, 1833. Ambon.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Front part trevally like, but elongated Widespread West Pacific. Usually shows yellow band. Lateral-line
posteriorly. Forms dense schools on clear inner reefs, swimming high strongly curved below first dorsal fin. Forms dense schools in sheltered
above substrate. Length to 50 cm. bays. Length to 30 cm.
D. russellii. Maumere, Flores. D. 6 m. L. 30 cm. D. macarellus. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 30 cm.

Slender Mackerel Scad Decapterus macrosoma Red-tail Mackerel Scad Decapterus kurroides
Decapterus macrosoma Bleeker, 1851. Java. Decapterus kurroides Bleeker, 1855. Ambon.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Very slender compared to similar Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Deep-bodied compared to similar
species. Mainly schooling in deep water off-shore. Occasionally seen in species. Sometimes a yellow mid-lateral stripe Mainly known from
small groups along reef slopes adjacent to deep water in pursuit of zoo- traws and shows red tail after capture. Occasionally seen in small
plankton. Length to 35 m. groups along reef slopes at moderate depths. Length to 45 m.

A. vari. Milne Bay, PNG. D. 10 m. L. 45 cm. S. boops. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length 16 cm. D. macrosoma. Tulamben, Bali. D. 20 m. L. 30 cm. D. kurroides. Pulau Putri. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm.

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 Rainbow Runner Elagatis bipinnulatus PONYFISHES - LEIOGNATHIDAE
Seriola bipinnulata Quoy & Gaimard, 1825. Papua.

Widespread in all tropical oceans. Easily recognised A small Indo-Pacific family with 3 genera and about 20 species. Mostly silvery fishes with strongly compressed bodies and tiny
but the double blue lateral stripes that reflect well embedded scales. Their mouth is highly protrusible, they have a slimy skin and produces mucus under stress for which they are
underwater. Oceanic species, but commonly visits known as soapies in South Africa. Primarily found n sheltered coastal bays and estuaries, sometimes in large schools.
inshore reefs. Primarily in surface waters but ranges to
moderate depths. Often congregates under large weed
rafts and may form large schools. May enter estuaries
in small groups. Sometimes curious towards divers. Common Ponyfish Leiognathus equulus Silver Ponyfish Leiognathus nuchalis
Lenght to about 1 m. Scomber equula Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Equula nuchalis Temminck & Schlegel, 1845. Japan.

A Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Deep-bodied with short rounded snout Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Deep-bodied, dark blotch on nape with
E. bipinnulata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1 m. Length 35 cm. and large eyes. Sheltered muddy bays, often in mangrove areas. highly reflective silvery areas next to it. Shallow estuaries and enters
Length to 25 cm. brackish tidal zones. Length to 25 cm.

L equulus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L. 15 cm. L. nuchalis. Queensland, Australia. Depth 1 m. Length 10 cm.

Threadfin Ponyfish Leiognathus fasciatus Highfin Ponyfish Leiognathus leuciscus

Clupea fasciata Lacepède, 1803. Mauritius. Equula leuciscus Günther, 1860. Ambon.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Lonf filament on dorsal fin in adults. West Pacific, Indonesia to southern Japan. Streamlined body and elon-
Deep-bodied and vertical dark bars on upper sides. Schooling. Mainly in gated dorsal spine. Sheltered muddy bays, a flighty species during the
coastal estuaries and brackish lagoons. Length to 25 cm. day. Length to 25 cm.

B
E. bipinnulata. Nusa Penida, Bali. Depth 17 m. Length 1 m.

MOONFISHES - MENIDAE
A single species family. Extremely compressed, paper-like, deep-bodied silvery fishes. They lack fin spines or these are rudimentary.

Moonfish Mene maculata

Zeus maculata Bloch & Schneider, 1801. Tranquebar, India. Utilised as food, as it is locally abundant and the thin bodies are
quickly dried in the sun. Becuase of their shape and pearly shine, they L. fasciatus. Queensland, Australia. D. 2 m. L. 15 cm. L. leuciscus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L. 12 cm.
Widespread West Pacific. Inhabits shallow bays and estuaries and are commonly presented in ornamental fashion on the markets (A).
swims in massive dense schools in turbulent waters near beaches. Length to 20 cm.
Slender Ponyfish Leiognathus elongatus Slender Soapy Secutor insidiator
Equula elongata Günther, 1874. North. Zeus insidiator Bloch, 1784. Surate, India.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Most slender species in genus with large Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Mouth strongly oblique, nostrils situat-
dark blotches. Often forms large schools in sheltered bays, feeding high ed above eyes. On deep muddy substrate to at least 150 m, Swims in
above substrate on zooplankton. Length to 12 cm. loose groups. Length to 10 cm.

A B
M. maculata. Pelabuhan Ratu, Java. Markets. Length 15 cm. L. elongatus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. D. 6 m. L. 12 cm. S. insidiator. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 5 cm.

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 SILVERBELLIES - GERREIDAE Threadfin Silverbelly
Gerres filamentosus
A moderately large family with 7 genera and at least 40 species. Mostly silvery fishes that are usually seen swimming just above Gerres filamentosus Cuvier, 1829.
the sand to feed on benthic prey. They have an excellent eye sight to locate small invertebrates and often stop motionless to Vanikoro I., sw Pacific.
study the substrate for small movements of potential prey. Many species are similar and are identified by slight differences in Widespread Indo-West Pacific. One of the
shape or fin-features. easier recognised species with the long fila-
ment on the dorsal fin and the vertical series
of spots along the sides. A shy species, usu-
ally seen singly or in pairs on large open
Short Silverbelly Gerres abbreviatus
sand or mud flats in sheltered bays. Often
Gerres abbreviatus Bleeker, 1850. Java. along beaches in very shallow depths.
Widespread West Pacific. Inhabits shallow protect- Length to 30 cm.
ed bays with fine to medium coarse sand sub-
strates. Seen singly or in loose groups. Near inter-
tidal to about 10 m depth. Length to 30 cm.

G. filamentosus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm.

Long-spine Silverbelly
A B Gerres macracanthus
G. abbreviatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 4 m. Length 20 cm. G. abbreviatus. Pulau Putri. D. 4 m. L. 6 cm.
Gerres macracanthus Bleeker, 1854. Java.

Black-tip Silverbelly Gerres argyreus Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Similar to G.

Cichla argyrea Forster, 1801. Vanuatu. filamentosus (above) with the long filament
on the dorsal fin but instead of spots it has
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Black tip on dorsal bars along the sides. Inhabits highly protect-
fin distinct and pale blue spots on cheeks. ed bays and estuaries with shallow mud flats.
Sheltered coastal bays with fine, often silty sub- Length to 30 cm.
strates. Length to 20 cm.

A B G. macracanthus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm.

G. argyreus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm. G. argyreus. Pulau Putri. D. 4 m. L. 7 cm.
Small-scale Silverbelly
Slender Silverbelly Gerres oyena Oblong Silverbelly Gerres oblongus Gerres acinaces
Labrus oyena Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Gerres oblonchus Cuvier, 1830. Sri Lanka. Gerres acinaces Bleeker, 1854. Java.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but may comprise several plain species. Widespread Indo-West Pacific. A large solitary species with several Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Body some-
Lacks distinctive features and is more slender compared to other simi- series of dusky blotches on upper sides. Follows large bottom feeders what elongated. Has very large caudal fin and
lar species. Very common in sheltered coastal bays and usually in small that are often disturbing the substrate, looking out for exposed prey. large adults have series of elongated spots
groups on sand flats. Length to 20 cm. Also common in large lagoons near outer reefs. Length to 30 cm that form irregular vertical bars on the upper
sides. A large solitary species, usually seen
on rubble reefs with low algae growth along
the outer margins of seagrass beds to about
20 m depth. Length to 25 cm.

G. oyena. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 3 m. Length 10 cm. G. oblongus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm. G. acinaces. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 5 m. Length 22 cm.

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 BREAMS - SPARIDAE SPINECHEEKS & WHIPTAILS - NEMIPTERIDAE
A moderately large family with 22 genera and more than 40 species, but most are in subtropical and temperate waters where A moderately large family, comprising 5 genera and about 65 species, many of which occurring in Indonesian waters. The
some species reach 1 m in lenght and are of great commercial and recreational importance. Few wideranging species occur in Spinecheeks or Monocle Breams and whiptails are commonlt encountered along reef edges, but a large number are Threadfins, and
Indonesian waters. Some enter freshwater, especially when juvenile. The feed primarily on molluscs that are crushed with their these are primarily deep-water dwellers. All species feed on small invertebrates that are searched for by sight. They have large eyes
strong canine teeth. and excellent eye-sight to detect small prey at distance. They commonly stop above the bottom to look-out for moving prey. Colour
is variable within many species and it can differ between juvenile and adult stages, and in some cases involves mimicry.

Grey Bream Acanthopagrus latus

Sparus latus Houttuyn, 1782. Japan.
Monocle Bream Scolopsis bilineata
Widespread West Pacific, southern Japan to Anthias bilineatus Bloch, 1793. Japan.
Indonesia. Reported from north-western
Australia and eastern Indian Ocean, but there Widespread West Pacific. Some geographical
are a number of very similar species, such as variations, especially different between Indian
A. australis. A schooling species in sheltered and Pacific Oceans. Pacific form with yellow
muddy coastal bays and estuaries. Often stripes and yellow dorsal fin. Indian ocean form
feeds on tidal flats. Length to 60 cm. lacks the yellow, and ranges as far east a Java.
The Pacific form is common throughout the
West Pacific, east from Bali. Adults occur on
most reef habitats, usually in pairs, and juve-
niles inshore or in lagoons on rubble zones.
Length to 20 cm.
A
A. latus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 40 cm.

A
S. bilineata. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm.

B C
B
S. bilineata. B Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 10 m. Juvenile, 40 mm. C Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 10 cm.
A. latus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 40 cm.

Black Bream
Acanthopagrus berda
Sparus berda Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Has black

appearance underwater and usually in turbit
conditions. Inshore on silty reefs and estuar-
ies, entering rivers and streams but also D
found in moderate depths offshore. Usually
occurs singly or small groups, but may
migrate in schools. Length to 56 cm.

E F
A. berda. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 4 m. Length 45 cm. S. bilineata. Indian Ocean form. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 3-6 m. Length D 30 cm. E 10 cm. F 20 cm.

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 Striped Spinecheek Scolopsis lineata Three-line Spinecheek Scolopsis trilineata
Scolopsis lineatus Qouy & Gaimard, 1824. Scolopsis trilineatus Kner, 1868. Savay, Samoa.
Waigeo, Indonesia.
Widespread West Pacific. Sheltered coastal reef flats,
Widespread West Pacific. Sheltered coastal reef flats, often often near mangoves to about 20 m depth. Usually seen
near mangoves. Adults form schools or small groups. solitary. Length to 20 cm.
Length to 20 cm.

A B
S. lineata. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 3 m. Length 16 cm. S. lineata. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 6 m. Length 3 cm.
A B
S. trilineata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. L. 15 cm. S. trilineata. Mabul, Malaysia. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm.

Golden Spinecheek Scolopsis aurata

Perca aurata Park, 1797. Sumatra.

Indian Ocean, ranging east to Bali. Adults at moderate

depths in small, loose groups. Juveniles solitary and in
sheltered bays along reef edges with rubble or coarse
sand in 6-20 m depth. Length to 24 cm.
C D
S. lineata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm. S. lineata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 7 cm.

Silver-line Spinecheek Scolopsis ciliata

Holocentrus ciliatus Lacepède, 1802. No locality.

Widespread West Pacific, but not known from Australia.

Coastal bays and estuaries, usually snady or silty slopes
near reefs or mangroves. Usually in small loose groups.
Length to 16 cm. A B
S. aurata. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. L. 8 cm. S. aurata. Pelabuhan Ratu, Java. Depth 20 m. Length 24 cm.

A Speckle-back Spinecheek Scolopsis sp 1

S. ciliata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 16 cm. West Pacific. Uncertain distribution because of confusion
with other similar species. Recognised by the dotted lines
over the back that follow the scale-rows. Juvenile usually
with dusky to black lateral stripes. Commonly occurs in
Bali. Coastal reef slopes from upper crests to about 20 m
depth. Adults solitary or in pairs. Juveniles often in small
aggregations on sand slopes. Length to 24 cm.

B C A
S. ciliata. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 16 cm. S. ciliata. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 6 cm. S. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 23 cm.

D E B C
S. ciliata. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 3 m. Length 14 cm. S. ciliata. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 4 cm. S. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 6 cm. S. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 22 cm.

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 Striped Spinecheek Scolopsis affinis White-band Spinecheek
Scolopsis affinis Peters, 1877 Scolopsis torquata
New Britain, New Ireland. Scolopsides torquatus Cuvier, 1830. Java.
Widespread West Pacific. Coastal to outer reef slopes. Widespread Indian Ocean, ranging east to Bali
Sometimes forms large schools in deep water. Adults main- where its range overlaps with S. vosmeri (next
ly in depths over 15 m. Juveniles solitary and in sheltered species), its sibling from the Pacific. Deep bodied
coastal habitats. Length to 22 cm. species with generally dark appearance, accept
the white band over the head and lighter coloured
caudal fin. Adults usually seen in small groups.
Protected bays with rocky reefs and often shel-
ters in shipwrecks at moderate depths. Usually
over 10 m depth. Length to 24 cm.

A
S. affinis. Pelabuhan Ratu, Java. Depth 25 m. Length 22 cm.

S. torquata. Pelabuhan Ratu, Java. Depth 15 m. Length 24 cm.

Vosmer’s Spinecheek Scolopsis vosmeri

Anthias vosmeri Bloch, 1792. Japan.

West Pacific, southern Japan to Indonesia.

Muddy estuaries to deep offshore. Seen solitary,
but may school deep. Length to 20 cm.

B C
S. affinis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 20 cm. S. affinis. Sanur, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 4 cm.

Pearly Spinecheek Scolopsis margaritifer

A
Scolopsis margaritifer Cuvier, 1830
S. vosmeri. Bali. D. 10 m. L. 3 cm.
Waigeo, Indonesia.

Widespread West Pacific, ranging into Indian Ocean to

Andaman Sea. Some colour variation between Indian and
Pacific populations. Juveniles lack yellow stripe in the
Indian Ocean population and adults show a contrasting dark
back compared to Pacific form. Coastal to outer reef habi-
tats with sand and rubble along base of reefs or on reef
crests. Length to 18 cm.
B C
S. vosmeri. Bali. D. 20 m. L. 18 cm. S. vosmeri. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 15 cm.
A
S. margaritifer. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 16 cm. Blue-stripe Spinecheek
Scolopsis xenochroa
Scolopsis xenochrous Günther, 1872. Moluccas.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Coastal to outer

reef slopes on sand and rubble ridges with rich
invertebrate growth.Usually in small groups.
Usually in depths over 10 m and more common
over 20 m. Length to 20 cm.

B C A B
S. margaritifer. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 16 cm. S. margaritifer. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 6 cm. S. xenochroa. Bali. D. 15 m. L. 3 cm. S. xenochroa. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm.

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 Red-spot Spinecheek Scolopsis taenioptera White-ear Whiptail Pentapodus bifasciatus
Scolopsides taeniopterus Kuhl & van Hasselt, 1830. Heterognathodon bifasciatus Bleeker, 1848.
Java. Sumbawa.
Widespread West Pacific. Red spot on axil when Malaysia and Indonesia, west of Wallis line to
adult. Flighty species, usually muddy habitats in Philippines. Inshore, mainly silty reef habitats.
estuaries or deep off-shore. Length to 22 cm. Length to 18 cm

A B
S. taenioptera. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 7 m. Length 20 cm. S. taenioptera. Sulawesi. D. 25 m. L. 7 cm.

A B
Latice Spinecheek Scolopsis monogramma P. bifasciatus. Singapore. D. 8 m. L. 18 cm. P. bifasciatus. Singapore. Depth 10 m. Length 18 cm.
Scolopsides monogramma Kuhl & van Hasselt,
1830. Java.
Striped Whiptail Pentapodus trivittatus
Widespread West Pacific. Coastal reefs and estuar- Labrus trivittatus Bloch, 1791. Japan.
ies to outer reef lagoons. Often silty habitats to at
least 50 m depth. Length to 22 cm. Southern Japan to Indonesia and to Solomon
Islands. Some geographical variations. In Sulawesi
shows yellow band (A) intermittently because of
other similar species in the same area. Clear coastal
to outer reef crests. Often in pairs or small groups.
Length to 22 cm.
A
S. monogramma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 28 cm.

C
S. monogramma. Pulau Putri. D. 6 m. L. 9 cm.
A B
P. trivittatus. Sulawesi. D. 18 m. L. 20 cm. P. trivittatus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 20 cm.

Butterfly Whiptail Pentapodus setosus

Pentapodus setosus Valenciennes, 1830. Java.

Widespread Indonesia, ranging to Philippines and

B D Singapore. Sheltered silty coastal bays to deep
S. monogramma. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 24 cm. S. monogramma. Pulau Putri. D. 6 m. L. 4 cm. muddy habitats offshore. Swims on open substrate
adjacent to reefs, usually in small aggregations.
Often with large bottom feeders such as stingrays to
Bald-spot Spinecheek Scolopsis temporalis catch disturbed prey. Juveniles shallow on sand,
Scolopsides temporalis Cuvier, 1830. Waigeo. usually low-algae reef habitats. Length to 18 cm,
excluding filaments on caudal fin.
West Pacific, Sulawesi to New Guinea and Solomon
A
Islands. Deep reef flats with rich invertebrate
growth. Usually seen solitary in 20+ m depth. Length P. setosus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 12 m. Length 17 cm.
to 35 cm, excluding filament.

A B B C
S. temporalis. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm. S. temporalis. Sulawesi. D. 35 m. L. 35 cm. P. setosus. Singapore. Depth 12 m. Length 35 mm. P. setosus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 6 cm.

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 Blue Whiptail Pentapodus emeryii Notched Threadfin Nemipterus peronii
Mesoprion? emeryii Richardson, 1843. Dentex peronii Valenciennes, 1830. No locality.
Barrow I., Western Australia.
Widespread West Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean.
West Pacific, Philippines to north-western Australia. Dorsal fin notched. Dark shoulder spot that shows at
Clear coastal reef slopes. Swims high above the night. Mainly known from deep muddy substrates to
substrate in small groups. Feed on benthic prey that 100 m depth. Usually in small groups. Flighty during
are located with their excellent eye-sight. Length to the day. Length to 29 cm.
25 cm, excluding filaments.

A
P. emeryii. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 7 m. Length. 10 cm. N. peronii. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 24 cm.

Fork-tailed Threadfin Nemipterus furcosus

Dentex furcosus Valenciennes, 1830. Sri Lanka.

Widespread West Pacific and to India, Indian Ocean.

Deep mud flats or sheltered estuaries. Length to 24 cm.

A B
N. furcosus. Bitung. D. 20 m. L. 10 cm. N. furcosus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 10 cm.

B
P. emeryii. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm. Balinese Threadfin Nemipterus balinensis Dwarf Threadfin Nemipterus balinensoides
Dentex balinensis Bleeker, 1858. Boleling, Bali. Synagris balinensoides Popta, 1918. Sunda, Indonesia.
Threadfin Whiptail Pentapodus caninus Southern Indonesia, Sumatra to Flores. Deep mud slopes. Rarely seen Philippines to southern Indonesia. Muddy substrates, usually in 30+ m
Scolopsides caninus Cuvier, 1830. in less than 50 m depth. Length to 18 cm depth. Length to 14 cm
Doreh, New Guinea.

Widespread West Pacific, except Australia. Open

reef slopes. Usually in small loose groups in depths
over 10 m. Length to 22 cm.

N. balinensis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 22 cm. N. balinensoides. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. L. 75 mm.

Banded Monocle Bream Parascolopsis inermis Collared Monocle Bream Parascolopsis eriomma
A B Scolopsides inermis Schlegel, 1843. Japan. Scolopsis eriomma Jordan & Richardson, 1909. Formosa.
P. caninus. Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi. Depth 12 m. Length 20 cm. P. caninus. Pulau Putri. D. 6 m. L. 35 mm.
West Pacific to northern Indian Ocean. Usually in small groups, in Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Muddy substrates, usually over 25 m
depths over 50 m, on sand and mud. Length to 14 cm. depth. In small groups. Length to 25 cm.
Japanese Whiptail
Pentapodus nagasakiensis
Leptoscolopsis nagasakiensis Tanaka, 1915.
Japan.

Widespread West Pacific, from southern Japan to

subtropical Australian waters. Sporadic distribu-
tion, but mostly deep on muddy substrate.
Sometimes enters shallow estuaries or harbours.
At Derawan, Kalimantan they were moderately
common in depths over 20 m, but extremely flighty.
Length to 17 cm.

P. nagasakiensis. Osesaki, Japan. Depth 25 m. Length 7 cm. P. inermis. Osesaki, Japan. Depth 18 m. Length 15 cm. P. eriomma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 45 m. Length 65 mm.

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 EMPERORS - LETHRINIDAE Red-spot Emperor Lethrinus lentjan
Bodianus lentjan Lacepède, 1802. Java.
A moderately large Indo-Pacific family with 5 genera and about 40 species. They are well represented in Indonesian waters, but many
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Adults with red
species that are commonly found on fish markets are restricted to deep water, and rarely seen by diving. Some grow to a moderate size, on edge of gill cover that is beginning to show in
about 1 m, and they are an important food fish in the region. Diet comprises small invertebrates and small fishes, usually taken from the the large juvenile in the photograph. They school
bottom from filtering amouth of of sand, or specifically targetting prey by sight. Some of the larger species feed at night when adult. near reefs in deep water, usually in excess of 25
m depth. Juveniles coastal and in lagoons with
seagrass beds when small. Length to 40 cm.
Orange-finned Emperor
Lethrinus erythracanthus
Lethrinus erythracanthus Valenciennes, 1830.
Marianas.

Indo-Pacific. Median fins of adults yellow to bright

red. Mainly inner reefs with rich invertebrate growth L. lentjan. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. Length 20 cm.
in depth of more than 10 m. Length to 70 cm.
Slender Emperor Lethrinus variegatus
Lethrinus variegatus Valenciennes, 1830.
Massuah, Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Recognised by

the slender body and usually a green colour. In
shore, primarily in seagrass and weed habitats.
A B Well camouflaged and usually swims in the cover
L. erythracanthus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm. L. erythracanthus. Flores. D. 6 m. L. 5 cm. of the substrate, going largely unnoticed by
divers. A small species, length to 20 cm.

L. variegatus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 3 m. Length 20 cm.

Yellow-lip Emperor
Lethrinus xanthochilus
Lethrinus xanthochilus Klunzinger, 1870.
Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Large adults

have a distinctly yellow upper lip and black
around the axil. Primarily found deep on clear
reefs adjacent to sand areas. Usually seen soli-
tary but sometimes swims in small groups.
Juveniles in seagrass beds. Length to 60 cm.

L. xanthochilus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 50 cm.

C
L. erythracanthus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 50 cm.
Striped Emperor Lethrinus ornatus
Tail-saddle Emperor Lethrinus erythropterus Lethrinus ornatus Valenciennes, 1830. Java.
Lethrinus erythropterus Valenciennes, 1830. Widespread West Pacific and east Indian Ocean.
Caroline Islands. Recognised by the horizontal stripes that are
present at all sizes and usually show clearly.
Indo-Pacific. Caudal barred in adults. Shy, reef
Coastal reefs, usually along deep slopes and
slopes and drop-offs. Juveniles in coralline algae
usually in small groups. Juveniles commonly
reefs in about 20 m depth. Adults usually deeper.
visit the tidal reef flats to feed when the water is
Length to 50 cm.
high. Length to 45 cm.

A B
L. erythropterus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 50 cm. L. erythropterus. Flores. D. 25 m. L. 45 mm. L. ornatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm.

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 Black-blotch Emperor Lethrinus harak Orange-stripe Emperor Lethrinus obsoletus
Sciana harak Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Sciana obsoleta Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Usually with a Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Adults with yellow to
large black blotch on the sides, but may fade orange stripe, but can be turned off at will. Occurs soli-
when in light coloured surroundings or in sea- tary in rich invertebrate reefs to about 30 m depth.
grass beds when small. Usually seen on sand Juveniles on weedy reefs. Reported length to 60 cm, but
substrates along reef edges. Coastal and inner usually 40 cm.
reefs, usually shallow to about 15 m depth.
Length to 40 cm.

L. harak. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm. A B

L. obsoletus. Sydney. D. 4 m. L. 45 mm. L. obsoletus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 35 cm.
Spangled Emperor Lethrinus nebulosus
Sciana nebulosa Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Sky Emperor Lethrinus atkinsoni
Lethrinus atkinsoni Seale, 1909. Philippines.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to sub-
tropical zones. Adults with a light blue spot on Widespread West Pacific. Adults blue-grey with broad
each scale and bars over the cheek. Juveniles yellow over the caudal peduncle and onto the caudal
variable with blotches or stripe and changes with fin. Inshore to outer reef habitats to 30 m depth.
habitat. Adults coastal and inner reefs to at least Mainly on sandy patches near reefs or seagrass beds.
75 m depth, usually in small groups. Juveniles in Usually seen solitary but forms schools at times.
estuaries and harbours where in seagrasses, Reported length to 50 cm, commonly to 35 cm.
algae or sponge habitats at various depths.
Length to 70 cm.

L. atkinsoni. Lizard I., Queensland, Australia. Depth 8 m. Length 35 cm.

A
L. nebulosus. Kerama, Japan. Depth 20 m. Length 50 cm. Yellow-head Emperor Lethrinus semicinctus
Lethrinus semicinctus Valenciennes, 1830.
Buru, Indonesia.

West Pacific. Usually bright yellow on the head and

elongated black blotch on side. Estuaries and shal-
low seagrass beds. Length to 35 cm.

A B
B C L. semicinctus. Gilimanuk. D. 4 m. L. 40 mm. L. semicinctus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm.
L. nebulosus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 30 cm. L. nebulosus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 4 cm.

Maldive Emperor Lethrinus sp 1

Appears to be widespread Indian Ocean and
south-western Indonesia. First discovered in the
Maldives. A plain looking species with a bluish
dark snout, but rather large lunate shaped caudal
fin. Primarily deep coastal reefs and known from
trawls and occasionally caught on hand lines.
Length to 40 cm.

C
L. sp 1. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 40 cm. L. semicinctus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 25 cm.

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 Long-nosed Emperor Lethrinus olivaceus Small-tooth Emperor Lethrinus microdon
Lethrinus olivaceus Valenciennes, 1830. Java. Lethrinus microdon Valenciennes, 1830. Buru, Indonesia.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Very similar to L. microdon, but Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Often confused with L. olivaceus
more scales above lateral line and caudal fin more forked when because of its long snout. Latter has more scales above the lat-
young. Usually shows series of dark spots along lateral line. eral line and there is a slight difference in the shape of the cau-
Adults deep along coastal slopes and drop-offs, usually solitary. dal fin. Adults in small to large aggregations, usually seen along
Feeds during the day on bottom invertebrates and small fishes. deep slopes, swimming high above the substrate, Juveniles
Known to depths of nearly 200 m. Length to 1 m. commonly to along reef edges on coastal slopes. Length to 80 cm.
80 cm.

A B A B
L. olivaceus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 60 cm. L. olivaceus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 25 cm. L. microdon. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm. L. microdon. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 60 cm.

C C
L. olivaceus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 75 cm. L. microdon. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 60 cm.

Gold-spot Emperor
Gnathodentex aureolineatus
Sparus aureolineatus Lacepède, 1802. No locality.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Silvery with lines to

near black, usually distinctive yellow saddle. Coastal
to outer reefs along walls, often forming large
schools. Disperses at night to feed. Length to 30 cm.

D A B
L. olivaceus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 90 cm. G. aureolineatus. Flores. D. 15 m. L. 30 cm. G. aureolineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 40 cm.

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 Large-eye Bream Monotaxis grandoculis Barred Large-eye Bream
Sciana grandoculis Forsskål, 1775. Gymnocranius griseus
Saudi Arabia, Red Sea. Dentex griseus Schlegel, 1844. Japan.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to central Pacific Widespread West Pacific and the Andaman Sea,
and sub-tropical zones. Highly variable in colour with size eastern Indian Ocean. Usually shows barred pat-
or mood and some geographical variation. Juveniles usu- tern but may fade in large adults. Sheltered coastal
ally with black saddles, but sometimes shows horizontal bays and sand and mud slopes, usually in depths
lines. Aduls plain dusky to grey with large dark saddles. over 20 m. Juveniles sometimes in shallow estu-
Mainly found along deep slopes where in loose aggrega- aries on algae reefs. Length to 35 cm.
tions sheltering in reefs, or swimming just above.when
currents are slight. Juveniles solitary in shallow lagoons in
rubble zones or on sheltered reef crests. Length to 60 cm.

A B
G. griseus. Bali. D. 12 m. L. 5 cm. G. griseus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.

A
M grandoculis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 60 cm.
Blue-lined Large-eye Bream
Gymnocranius grandoculis
Cantharus grandoculis Valenciennes, 1830.
Seychelles.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific, Adults develop

blue stripes on the snout. Clear coastal reefs,
adjacent to deep water. Juveniles inshore on
muddy substrates. Length to 50 cm

B C
M grandoculis. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 5 cm. M grandoculis. Sanur, Bali. Depth 2 m. Length 7 cm.

A B
G grandoculis. Flores. D. 15 m. L 5 cm. G grandoculis. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 40 cm.

Black-nape Large-eye Bream Gymnocranius sp 1 Blue-spotted Large-eye Bream Gymnocranius microdon

Dentex microdon Bleeker, 1851. Sulawesi.
Undescribed species, but known from southern Japan to eastern
Australia, and eastern Indonesia.Probably is widepread. Recognised Widespread West Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean. Adults recognised
by the black spot above the eyes and the series of small spots along by the blue spots on the snout. Juveniles with a mostly vertical banded
the scale rows over the back. Current channels at moderate depths. pattern. Solitary on sand slopes in clear coastal and lagoon habitats.
Length reported to 45 cm. Length to 45 cm.

D
M grandoculis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 60 cm. With cleaner wrasses Labroides dimidiatus. G. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 30 cm. G. microdon. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 40 cm.

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 SWEETLIPS - HAEMULIDAE Yellow-ribbon Sweetlips
Plectorhinchus polytaenia
A large family with 18 genera and an estimated 120 species. Includes the estuarine grunters, subfamily Haemulinae, mainly the Diagramma polytaenia Bleeker, 1852. Sulawesi.
genus Pomadasys, and sweetlips, subfamily Plectorhinchinae, in which Plectorhinchus is the most speciose. Many species go
West-Pacific, Philippines to north-western Australia.
through dramatic colour changes during growth, small juveniles are often boldly spotted or striped, whilst adults are usually plain Adults with broad yellow stripes. Colour changes
with spots or have more and thinner lines. Some juveniles have long tails and swim by undulating their body sideways, giving the from juvenile to adult shown below. Adults on deep
impression of a swimming flatworm. current-prone slopes with rich invertebrate growth.
Juveniles on sheltered reefs nearby. Length to 50 cm.
Lined Sweetlips Plectorhinchus lessonii
Diagramma lessonii Cuvier, 1830. Waigeo.
D
West-Pacific, southern Japan to north-eastern
Australia. Adults with greenish black stripes over P. polytaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm
the back. Abdomen white. Inner and outer reef
lagoons, usually in caves along steep slopes.
Juveniles in shallow lagoons or protected shallow
reefs. Length to 40 cm.

A
P. lessonii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 35 cm. E
P. polytaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 30 cm
B

C
P. polytaenia. Juvenile development. A-B Tulamben, Bali. F
A 20 mm. B 30 mm. C Mabul, Malaysia. Length 45 mm. P. polytaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 40 cm
F
B P. lessonii. D length 3.2 mm. E-F same individual 18
P. lessonii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 30-35 cm. days later, length 14 mm. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m.

G
P. lessonii. Tulamben, Bali. D. 2 m. L. 35 mm.

C H G
P. lessonii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 30-35 cm. P. lessonii. Sanur, Bali. D. 2 m. L. 5 cm. P. polytaenia. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 50 cm

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 Oblique-banded Sweetlips Oriental Sweetlips
Plectorhinchus lineatus Plectorhinchus vittatus
Sciaena lineata Linnaeus, 1754. No locality. ?Perca vittata Linnaeus, 1758. No loc.
Diagramma goldmanni Bleeker, 1853. Anthias orientalis Bloch, 1793. Japan
Ternate, Moluccas.
Widespread Indo-West-Pacific. Adults
Widespread West-Pacific. Adults white with broad black white with broad black stripes, fins yellow
stripes that run oblique, fins yellow with black spots. with black spots. Colour changes from
Colour changes from juvenile to adult shown in photo- juvenile to adult shown below. Deep
graphs. Deep inner to outer reef habitats, often in small coastal reef slopes, often in small groups.
groups, but schooling in some areas. Juveniles solitary on Juveniles on shallow protected reefs.
shallow protected reefs. Length to 60 cm. Length to 45 cm.

A
P. lineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 14 cm

A
D
P. vittatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm

B C
P. lineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 18 cm P. lineatus. Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 4 cm

C
P. vittatus. Tulamben, Bali. D. ~10 m.
Juvenile stages. E
A ~3 mm, B ~5 mm. C ~18 mm P. vittatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm
D E
P. lineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 25 cm P. lineatus. Sanur, Bali. Depth 3 m. Length 9 cm

F F
P. lineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 55 cm P. vittatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm

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 Orange-lined Sweetlips Plectorhinchus chrysotaenia Clown Sweetlips
Diagramma chrysotaenia Bleeker, 1852. Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides
Southern Sulawesi. Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides Lacepède, 1801
No locality.
Widespread West-Pacific. Body with thin yellow-orange lines.
In large adults the lines become irregular or run angular. Fins Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Juveniles brown with
bright yellow. Coastal reef slopes, inner reefs and deep large white blotches. Becomes more spotted with age,
lagoons. In small aggregations and in some areas form reversing from white to black spotted in the process.
schools. Description based on juveniles, 10-12 cm, in which Deeper bodies compared to most others in the genus.
the caudal fin is rounded. P. celebicus is the adult phase and Coastal to outer reef habitats from shallow lagoons to
a junior synonym. Length to 40 cm. deep along drop-offs. Length to 60 cm.
A
P. chrysotaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 40 cm.

B
P. chaetodonoides. Manado, Sulawesi., Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 28 cm.

A
P. chaetodonoides. Sulwesi. D. 6 m. L. 9 mm.

B
P. chrysotaenia. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 30 cm.

Gold-spotted Sweetlips Plectorhinchus flavomaculatus

Diagramma flavomaculatum Cuvier, 1830. Suez, Red Sea.

Widespread Indo-West-Pacific. Large adults with numerous

small yellow spots and thin lines on the head. Juveniles C D
stripes, the stripes breaking up with age and gradually P. chaetodonoides. Tulamben, Bali. D. 9 m. L. 10 cm. P. chaetodonoides. Manado, Sulawesi., Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm.
change to the adult pattern. Adults usually on silty reefs at
moderate depths, or in current channels occasionally inshore.
Juvenile enter estuaries and harbours. Length to 60 cm.

A
P. flavomaculatus. Sydney, Australia. Depth 5 m. Length 10 cm.

B E
P. flavomaculatus. Tepekong, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 50 cm. P. chaetodonoides. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 50 cm.

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 Magpie Sweetlips Plectorhinchus picus Giant Sweetlips
Diagramma pica Cuvier, 1830. Indian Ocean. Plectorhinchus albovittatus
Diagramma albovittatum Rüppell, 1838.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Changes from bold black and white
Red Sea.
pattern to a whitish grey with numerous small black spot over most
of the upper body and fins. Often confused with P. chaetodonoides, Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Described from
but is more slender and spots are smaller. Clear coastal to outer reef a 10 cm juvenile which is orange with broad
habitats, usually in depths over 20 m. Adults solitary or in small black stripe, one running mid-laterally and the
groups sheltering in reefs during the day. Length to 50 cm. other along upper sides. Aduls mainly grey with
black fin markings. Juveniles with yellow
A stripes and are estuarine. Adults on deep reefs
P. picus. South of Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 16 cm.
or with sea mounts. Often called P. obscurus, a
junior synonym based on adult. Largest sweet-
lips, length to about 1 m.
A
P. albovittatus. Aquarium, Jakarta. Length 35 cm.

B C
P. picus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 45 cm. P. picus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 40 cm.

B
P. albovittatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 95 cm.

Black-foot Sweetlips
Diagramma melanacrum
Diagramma melanacrum
Johnson & Randall, 2001. Lombok.

D West Pacific, known from Sulawesi,

P. picus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 50 cm. Kalimantan to Bali and the Timor Sea.
Recognised by the spotted pattern, the yellow
dorsal and upper caudal fin, and the black fins
Brown Sweetlips Plectorhinchus gibbosus below. Juveniles in estuaries and silty reefs on
Holocentrus gibbosus Lacepède, 1802. No locality. open substrates with remote outcrops of reef
or debris. Adults on deep reefs along walls with
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Plain grey with dusky mar- large caves. Often in small aggregations in
gins on fins and gills when adult. Juvenile brown to near depths of 30 m or more. Length to 45 cm. A
black, mimicking leaves floating in surface waters. Adults D. melanacrum. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 42 cm.
mainly in protected inshore reefs to deep offshore, some-
times swims in small groups. Length to 75 cm.

A B B C
P. gibbosus. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 10 m. Length 28 cm. P. gibbosus. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 0.5 m. L. 30 mm. D. melanacrum. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm. D. melanacrum. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 25 m. Length 35 cm.

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 Painted Sweetlips Diagramma pictum Spotted Painted Sweetlips Diagramma cf pictum
Perca picta Thunberg, 1792. Japan. Southern Indonesia, Bali to Flores, to Moluccen Seas.
Diagramma labiosum Macleay, 1882. Queensland. Possibly a variation or subspecies of D. pictum. Adults
remain heavily spotted. This form appears to deeper bodied
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but several geographical and the snout shorter, compared to D. pictum. Juveniles are
variations that may be separate species. Juveniles yel- always white and yellow fins develop as soon as the stripe
low or white with broad black stripes and anterior part break-up into spots. Sub-adults are densly covered with yel-
of dorsal fin tall. Typically found on open muddy or silty lowish spots on the body and pupil-sized black spots on the
substrates in protected bays or estuaries. Adults dorsal and caudal fins. Adults on coastal muddy reefs,
become plain grey or spotted. The Queensland fish are forming small groups with coral outcrops. Juveniles solitary
plain grey. The variation on this page has yellow juve- on mud flats. Length to about 1 m.
niles and adults are finely spotted. This form ranges
from the Indian Ocean to Bali, and north to Japan.
Length to at least 90 cm.
A
D. pictum. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 17 m. Length 10 cm.
A
D. cf pictum. Amed, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 22 cm

B
D. cf pictum. Flores. D. 6 m. Length 12 mm.

C D
D. cf pictum. Komodo. D. 6 m. Length 35 mm. D. cf pictum. Flores. D. 6 m. Length 6 cm
B C
D. pictum. Bitung, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm. D. pictum. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 5 m. L. 15 mm.

D E
D. pictum. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 35 cm. D. pictum. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 3 m. L. 40 mm. E
D. cf pictum. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm

F F
D. pictum. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 43 m. Length 80 cm. D. cf pictum. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length ~80 cm.

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 Spotted Grunter-bream Pomadasys kaakan Fine-spotted Grunter-bream Pomadasys argenteus Five-line Snapper Lutjanus quinquelineatus
Pristipoma kaakan Cuvier, 1830. India. Sciaena argentea Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Holocentrus quinquelineatus Bloch, 1790. Japan.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Spots over upper sides in a pattern of Widespread West Pacific. Uncertain distribution as name often applied Widespread West Pacific and northern Indian Ocean,
short bars that are well defined in sub-adults but large individuals to other species. Primarily silvery with tiny black spots on scale-cen- ranging to Arabian seas. Yellow with five blue stripes.
become plain silvery. Similar to bream, but caudal fin truncate instead tres. Coastal sandy and muddy bays and large estuaries, over open Common coastal reef species, mainly rocky or silty habi-
of forked. Coastal bays, feeding on prawns. Length to 66 cm. substrates. Length to 70 cm. tats. Juveniles solitary and shallow in protected bays with
algae and rubble substrates. Large adults form small
aggregations at moderate depths, usually in 30 - 40 m.
They form large schools in some Pacific locations.
Length to 38 cm, commonly seen to 25 cm.

A
L. quinquelineatus. Sunda Strait, Java. Depth 25 m. Length 35 cm.

P. kaakan. Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 6 m. Length 30 cm. P. argenteus. Aquarium, Jakarta. Length 50 cm.

SNAPPERS - LUTJANIDAE
A large family with 17 genera and 103 known species worldwide. The genera Lutjanus is by far the most specious with 65 species,
of which 39 are known from the Indo-West pacific. They are of considerable commercial importance in the tropical regions. Many
species occur commonly on coastal reefs and some enter estuaries and lower reaches of streams. Most species are recognised by
shape and distinctive colours, but a few closely related species are similar and easily confused. Juveniles are usually very different B C
in colour from adults. L. quinquelineatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 5 cm. L. quinquelineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 8 m. Length 20 cm.

Blue-striped Snapper Lutjanus kasmira Bengal Snapper Lutjanus bengalensis

Sciaena kasmira Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Holocentrus bengalensis Bloch, 1790. Bengal.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Yellow with four blue Widespread Indian Ocean, ranging east to Bali. Lower
stripes. Common coastal reef species, adults forming half of body white. Protected bays, often in sandy or
large schools. Length to 35 cm, usually 25 cm. muddy channels with small reef outcrops. Length to 30
cm, usually 20 cm.

A B
L. kasmira. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm. L. kasmira. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 6 m. L. 5 cm.
A B
L. bengalensis. Menjangan I., Bali. D. 8 m. L. 9 cm. L. bengalensis. Maldives. Depth 6 m. Length 15 cm.

Spanish-flag Snapper Lutjanus carponotatus

Mesoprion carponotatus Richardson, 1842. W. A.

Widespread West Pacific and eastern Indian Ocean. Has

8-9 m dusky-golden stripes and yellow median fins. Silty
coastal reefs in sheltered bays and deep outer reef
slopes. Often schooling. Length to 40 cm.

C A B
L. kasmira. Tepekong, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 24 cm. L. carponotatus. Pulau Putri, Java. D. 6 m. L 30 cm. L. carponotatus. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 6 m. Length 40 cm.

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 Yellow-striped Snapper Lutjanus rufolineatus Half-barred Snapper Lutjanus semicinctus
Diacope rufolineata Valenciennes, 1830. Lutjanus semicinctus Quoy & Gaimard, 1824.
New Guinea. Waigeo, Indonesia.

Widespread West Pacific. Grey with numerous yellow West Pacific, eastern Indonesia, Philippines and New
stripes. Juveniles with a small black side-spot that Guinea ranging to central Pacific. Easily recognised by the
shows intermittently in adults. Coastal reefs, often in black-barred pattern and large black blotch on caudal
massive schools that covers a large section of reef. peduncle. Occurs mainly solitary or in small croups on
Length to 30 cm. clear coastal to outer reef habitas, usually in depths over
10 m. A shy species that moves around quickly through
coral channels in hunt for small fishes. The individual
shown in A was following a large hunting octopus that
made numerous creatures, such as small crabs, running
for their lives. The snapper and the moray (Siderea thyr-
soidea) in the picture were keeping an eye out for such
escapies that provided an easy meal. Length to 35 cm.

A
L. semicinctus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 10 m. Length 35 cm.

A B
L. rufolineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 25 cm. L. rufolineatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 14 m. Length 6 cm.

C D
L. rufolineatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm. L. rufolineatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 20 cm.
B
Moluccen Snapper Lutjanus boutton L. semicinctus. Milne Bay, PNG. Depth 10 m. Length 35 cm.
Holocentrus boutton Lacepède, 1802. Moluccas.
Checkered Snapper Lutjanus decussatus
West Pacific, eastern Indonesia to Philippines and to
Mesoprion decussatus Cuvier, 1828. Java.
PNG. Usually large black side-spot, but sometimes
faded in adults. Closely related and very similar to L Widespread Indonesia, to Philippines and to eastern
rufolineatus but lacks the stripes. Coastal reefs, usually Indian Ocean, ranging to India. Lines in adult joint along
seen solitary along steep slopes. Small juveniles on upper sides, forming series of pale blotches. Large black
shallow algae reefs, often near freshwater run-offs. peduncular spot. In Indonesia usually seen solitary on reef
Length to 35 cm. crests and along deep slopes or drop-offs. May school
elsewhere or when migrating. Juveniles on shallow pro-
tected reef flats. Length to 35 cm, usually 30 cm.
A
A
L. boutton. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 30 cm.
L. decussatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 30 cm.

C
B L. boutton. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. B C
L. boutton. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 25 cm. Length 4 cm. L. decussatus. Maumere, Flores. D. 3 m. L. 4 cm. L. decussatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 35 cm.

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 Two-spot Snapper Lutjanus biguttatus Golden Snapper
Serranus biguttatus Valenciennes, 1830. Sri Lanka. Lutjanus mizenkoi
Lutjanus mizenkoi Allen & Talbot, 1985.
Widespread West Pacific and east Indian Ocean, ranging west
Samoa.
to the Maldives. Very slender and very distinct white twin spots
on the upper sides, often followed by a smaller third on the
Widespread Indonesia and east to Samoa.
caudal peduncle. Clear inner and outer reef habitats. Large indi-
Appears bright yellow underwater. Adults
viduals often solitary, but occasionally form large schools.
pink with yellow stripes that run over the
Length to 25 cm, usually 20 cm.
head as well as body. Juveniles are rela-
A tivily slender and similar in shape to L.
L. biguttatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 22 cm. vitta. Deep coastal muddy reef slopes with
reef outcrops and often on shipwrecks in
depth over 20 m. Reported to 150 m
depth. Seen singly or in small aggrega-
tions. Length to 32 cm.

A
L. mizenkoi. Maumere, Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 22 cm.

B C
L. biguttatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm. L. biguttatus. Maumere, Flores. D. 10 m. L. 12 cm.

Big-eye Snapper Lutjanus lutjanus

Lutjanus lutjanus Bloch, 1790. Japan.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Plain grey with light yellow

mid-lateral stripe when adult. Stripe sometimes bright yellow
when small. Coastal reef slopes, usually near deep water where
usually in large schools during the day. Trawled to depth of
almost 100 m. Length reported to 30 cm, but rarely larger than
20 cm in Indonesian waters. B C
L. mizenkoi. Maumere, Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 22 cm. L. mizenkoi. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm.

A
L. lutjanus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm. Dusky-tail Snapper
Lutjanus lemniscatus
Serranus lemniscatus
Valenciennes, 1828. Sri Lanka.

Widespread West Pacific and east Indian

Ocean, ranging west to India. Small juve-
niles with black tail and body with hori-
zontal lined pattern of dusky or yellowish
lines. Larger juveniles with black mid-lat-
eral stripe. Adults plain pinkish brown
with dusky tail. Coastal to offshore in
B C muddy habitats. Adults usually very deep.
L. lutjanus. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm. L. lutjanus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 12 cm. Length reported to 65 cm, but usually
much smaller.
Pygmy Snapper Lutjanus maxweberi
Lutjanus max weberi Popta, 1921. Celebes. A
L. lemniscatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 35 m. Length 24 cm.
Indonesia, east of Wallis line to PNG. Primarily known from
fresh and brackish waters, streams and estuaries. Young with
4 black horizontal stripes, changing gradually to brownish
overall when adult. Appears to be a small species with the max-
imum total length known to 15 cm.

B C
L. maxweberi. Nagada Harbour, Madang, PNG. Depth 1.5 m. G.R. ALLEN. L. lemniscatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 6 m. Length 6 cm. L. lemniscatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 12 cm.

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 Indian Snapper Lutjanus madras Russell’s Snapper Lutjanus russellii
Mesoprion madras Valenciennes, 1831. Mesoprion russellii Bleeker, 1849.
Seychelles. Malay-Moluccen Archipelago.
Indo-West Pacific, ranging west to the Seychelles and Widespread Indo-West Pacific, but appears to com-
east to Irian Jaya. Yellowish mid lateral line with several prise two forms in which the adult is with or without
more below. Angular lines along upper sides. Mainly on stripes. Both are found in various regions, but only
rocky reefs or in muddy estuaries. Reported to 90 m. striped form in the Indian Ocean. Juveniles in shel-
Length to 30 cm. tered bays and harbours, usually in depths over 10 m.
Adults on clear outer reefsat moderate depths, usually
over 20 m, and is more common in about 50 m depth.
A Length to 45 cm.
L. madras. Gilimanuk, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 24 cm.

A
L. russellii. Derawan, Kalimantan. D. 20 m. L. 40 cm. Plain form (West Pacific only).

B C
B L. russellii. Sydney, Australia. Juvenile form. L. russellii. Komodo. Depth 15 m. Length 45 cm.
L. madras. Pelabuhan Ratu, Java. Depth 20 m. Length 22 cm.

Brown-stripe Snapper Lutjanus vitta

Serranus vitta Quoy & Gaimard, 1824. Waigeo.

Widespread West Pacific and east Indian Ocean, ranging

west to the Seychelles. Juveniles with a black mid-lateral
stripe that fades with growth. Adults with yellow median
fins. Mainly found on open mud substrates with sponge-
reef outcrops. Juveniles in small groups, often with tube
anemones, sharing with other fishes. Length to 40 cm.

D E
L. russellii. Maumere, Flores. D. 25 m. L. 35 cm. L. russellii. Sunda Strait, Java. Depth 15 m. Length 40 cm.

Freshwater Snapper Lutjanus fuscescens

Mesoprion fuscescens Valenciennes, 1830. Celebes.

West Pacific, China Seas to Indonesia and Solomon I.

Plain grey with large black side-spot. Inshore, usually in
A B
freshwater run-offs, juveniles upstream. Length to 40 cm.
L. vitta. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm. L. vitta. Maumere, Flores. D. 20 m. L 25 mm.

C B C
L. vitta. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 20 m. Length 30 cm. L. fuscescens. A juv., Irian Jaya. G.R. ALLEN. B Flores. Depth 1 m. L. 9 cm. C Pulau Putri, Java. Depth 2 m. Length 30 cm.

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 Black-spot Snapper Lutjanus ehrengergii One-spot Snapper Lutjanus monostigma
Lutjanus ehrenbergii Peters, 1869. Red Sea. Mesoprion monostigma Cuvier, 1828. Seychelles.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Juveniles and adults with a Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Adults grey or yel-
large black side-spot and four yellow to orenge stripes along lowish grey to brown with yellow fins. At night it is
lower sides. Very shallow coastal habitats, often in large brown to red in colour. With or without black side
schools near freshwater run-offs. Juveniles often intertidal. spot that can be turned on or off at will. Coastal to
Length to 35 cm, but usually less than 25 cm. outer reef slopes and walls with large caves, Often on
deep shipwrecks to about 30 m depth. Seen singly or
A in small loose aggregations. Length to 60 cm.
L. ehrenbergii. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 5 m. Length 20 cm.

A
L. monostigma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 50 cm.

B C
L. ehrenbergii. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. Length 22 cm. L. ehrenbergii. Derawan, Kalimantan. D. 1 m. L. 25 mm.

B
L. monostigma. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 55 cm.

Lunartail Snapper Lutjanus lunulatus

Perca lunulata Park, 1797. Sumatra.

Indo-West Pacific from Arabian Seas to Fiji, mainly

near equatorial waters. Adults with a distinct cres-
D cent shaped black bar in the caudal fin and the body
L. ehrenbergii. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 2-3 m. Length 22 cm. bright yellow ventrally. Clear water reefs in current
or surge zones to about 30 m depth. Occurs singly
Long-spot Snapper Lutjanus fulviflamma or in small groups. Length to 35 cm.
Sciaena fulviflamma Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to central Pacific and
into sub-tropical zones. Juveniles with a black stripe over
snout and through the eye, and a round to elongated black
side spot. Adult with a more elongated side-spot and reduced
in size proportionally to total length and several yellow lines
along lower sides. Juveniles in estuaries and harbours. Adults
usually school on coastal reefs and in deep lagoons. Length A
to 35 cm.

A
L. fulviflamma. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm.

B C B
L. fulviflamma. Derawan, Kalimantan. Depth 10 m. Length 20 cm. L. fulviflamma. Maumere, Flores. Depth 2 m. L. 6 cm. L. lunulatus. Sunda Strait, Java. Depth 20 m. Length 35 cm.

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 Humpback Snapper Lutjanus gibbus Black-tail Snapper Lutjanus fulvus
Sciaena gibba Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea. Holocentrus fulvus Schneider, 1801. Tahiti.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging broadly to the Widespread Indo-West to central Pacific.
central Pacific. Large adults with strongly concave head Recognised by the black tail. Yellow along bel-
profile and enlarge upper lobe of the caudal fin. Juvenile low, striped when young. Coastal reef slopes.
with large black area on caudal peduncle that extends Young inshore on shallow algae-reef flats.
along the dorsal fin base. Large individuals along coastal Length to 40 cm.
slopes at moderate depths. Sub-adults commonly form
very large schools that are stationary or drift slowly
along slopes during the day. Juveniles inshore, often on
very shallow reef flats. Length to 50 cm

A
L. gibbus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Night. Length 20 cm.

A B
L. fulvus. Maumere, Flores. D. 1 m. L. 3 cm. L. fulvus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 15 m. Length 20 cm.

B C
L. gibbus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 10 m. Length 12 cm. L. gibbus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 3 m. L. 4 cm.

C
L. fulvus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 40 cm.

Rounded Snapper Lutjanus erythropterus

D Lutjanus erythropterus Bloch, 1790. Japan.
L. gibbus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 40 cm.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Deep-bodied with
rounded head profile. Juveniles with black
peduncular and white band in front of it. A black
band from snout running through eye to dorsal
origin. Adults deep on muddy substrates.
Juveniles on coastal reef slopes.Length to 60 cm.

E A B
L. gibbus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 35 cm. L. erythropterus. Bali. D. 10 m. L. 4 cm. L. erythropterus. Pulau Putri. Depth 35 m. Length 40 cm.

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 Malabar Snapper Lutjanus malabaricus Mangrove Jack
Sparus malabaricus Schneider, 1801 Lutjanus argentimaculatus
Coromandel. Sciaena argentimaculata Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to the cen-
the central Pacific. Large adults plain red but tral Pacific. Large adults mostly plain. Scales with
not seen diving, usually very deep, to about dark centres and a thin blue line along the cheek is
100 m. Juvenile with black peduncular with present to a very large size. Juvenile distinctly
white bands in front and behind, becomeing banded. Large adults on deep coastal to outer
saddle markings with age. Juveniles on reefs, usually in small aggregations to depths of
muddy coastal slopes on open substrates about 100 m. Juveniles until young adult inshore,
with small outcrops of reef or debris, usual- often in lowere reaches of streams or in freshwater
ly in depth of 20 m or more. Length to 1 m, run-offs. Length to 1.2 m.
but usually to 50 cm. A
L. argentimaculatus. Gilimanuk, Bali. Depth 6 m. Length 45 cm.
A
L. malabaricus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Night. Length 20 cm.

B C
L. argentimaculatus. Flores. D. 1 m. L. 3 cm. L. argentimaculatus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 30 m. Length 75 cm.

Red Bass Lutjanus bohar

Sciaena bohar Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
B C
Widespread Indo-West to central Pacific. Large
L. malabaricus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Night. Length 15 cm. L. malabaricus. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 23 m. Length 5 cm.
adults mostly plain red. Juveniles with distinct
white side-spots, when small mimicking Chromis
Timor Snapper Lutjanus timorensis damsels. Coastal to outer reef slopes and drop-
offs. Length to 75 cm.
Diacope timorensis
Quoy & Gaimard, 1824. Timor.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to the

central Pacific. Large adults plain red and
rarely seen by diving. Juveniles with a black
peduncular spot and a white spot in front, a
second smaller white spot on caudal fin bae
when very small. Juveniles on muddy coastal A B
slopes on open substrates with small outcrops L. bohar. Tulamben, Bali. D. 6 m. L. 10 cm. L. bohar. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 25 cm.
of reef or debris, usually in depth of 15 m or
more. Length to 50 cm, but usually to 30 cm.
A
L. timorensis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm.

B C C
L. timorensis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Night. Length 20 cm. L. timorensis. Maumere, Flores. D. 20 m. Length 5 cm. L. bohar. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 12 m. Length 65 cm.

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 Spotted Snapper Lutjanus sp 1 Red Emperor Lutjanus sebae
Undetermined species, only known from the photo- Diacope sebae Cuvier, 1828. Indonesia & India.
graph taking in shallow coastal habitat. Extremely
flighty and difficult to get photographs. Only one Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to the cen-
shot was taken at a distance. The spotted pattern is tral Pacific and to sub-tropical zones. Large adults
unsual in this group and the shape suggest that it plain pinkish-red. Juveniles black and white band-
may represent the juvenile of L. dodecanthoides, ed. Black bands turn red in sub-adults. Large adults
(Mesoprion dodecanthoides Bleeker, 1854. usually not seen by diving because of depth prefer-
Ambon), as others with similar shapes are known. ence. Sub-adults to about 50 cm are occasionally
Adults of this species have stripes of the colour of encountered on open substrates with reef outcrops
the spots in the photograph. It is known from the with caves. Juveniles commonly swim amongst the
Philippines and Indonesia. Length to 30 cm. spines of urchins in shallow coastal bays. Length to
1 m.

L. sp 1. Maumere, Flores. Depth 25 m. Length 20 cm. A

L. sebae. Lizard I., Australia. Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm. Sub-adult colouration.
Blubberlip Snapper Lutjanus rivulatus
Diacope rivulata Cuvier, 1828. India & Java.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to the cen-

tral Pacific. Large adults brownish to grey with
small white spots and fine striations on the head.
Median fins yellow. Juveniles with a distinct white
spot next to a black one and a dark band behind the
head. Adults on deep coastal slopes. Juveniles on
shallow algae-reef flats, often near freshwater run-
offs. Length to 65 cm.

A
L. rivulatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 4 m. Length 20 cm.
B C
L. sebae. Sydney, Australia. D 3 m. L. 25 mm. L. sebae. Padangbai, Bali. Depth 18 m. Length 6 cm.

Papuan Black Snapper Lutjanus goldiei

Mesoprion goldiei Macleay, 1882. New Guinea.

Primarily known from southern New Guinea

between Port Moresby to the Fly River, but also
known from Iriomote Island, southern Japan and
could be expected in the areas inbetween such as
Halmahera. Variable in colour from bronze-grey to
black and juveniles usually banded, sometimes up
B C to large sizes. Travels well up rivers and appears to
L. rivulatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1.5 m. Length 75 mm. L. rivulatus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 1.5 m. Length 30 mm. be primarily a freshwater fish that can be found in
brackish waters down stream. Larval stages are
probably marine. Juveniles or adolescent fish may
occur in mangroves and could be mistaken for the
Mangrove Jack L. argentimaculatus that has a sim- A
ilarly banded pattern in such habitats. Length L. goldiei. Biges R., PNG. Length about 50 cm. G.R. ALLEN.
reported to 1 m, but usually to 60 cm.

D B
L. rivulatus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 50 cm. L. goldiei. Biges R., PNG. Length about 25 cm. G.R. ALLEN.

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 Midnight Snapper Macolor macularis Black Snapper Macolor niger
Macolor macularis Fowler, 1931. Philippines. Sciaena nigra Forsskål, 1775. Red Sea.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging west to the Maldives. Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to the central
Juveniles easily identified by the black and white colouration, and the Pacific. Adults dark-grey to almost black. Juveniles dis-
very long ventral fins. The colour pattern breaks-up and the ventral tinctly black and white and lack the long ventral fins like in
fins shorten proportionally as the fish grows. Adults have yellow M. macularis. Adults usually schooling on clear coastal to
eyes. Adults commonly occur on deep reef slopes, often congrega- outer reef walls in current prone areas. Juveniles solitary
tion on corners of current channels where in the lee from the reef. on coastal reef slopes. Length to 60 cm.
Small juveniles solitary on protected reef slopes with feather stars, in
staghorn corals or large sponges. Length to 60 cm.

A
M. niger. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 12 cm.

A B C
M. macularis. Maumere, Flores. Depth 10 m. Length 15 cm. M. macularis. Maumere, Flores. D. 15 m. Lengths 15+17 mm.
B
M. niger. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 15 m. Length 3 cm.

C D
M. niger. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. L. 6 cm. M. niger. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm.
D E
M. macularis. D Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 13 m. Length 40 cm. E Maumere, Flores. Close-up, adult.

F E
M. macularis. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 45 cm. M. niger. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 18 m. Length 50 cm.

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 Sailfin Snapper Symphorichthys spilurus Green Jobfish Aprion virescens
Symphorus spilurus Günther, 1874. Pelew Islands. Aprion virescens Valenciennes, 1830.
Seychelles.
Widespread West Pacific. Easily identified by the steep
head when adult, extented dorsal fin rays when young Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging broadly to
and the blue lines running along the head and body. the central Pacific. Adults green-grey. A solitary
Small juveniles have a broad black mid-lateral stripe. hunter preying on fishes and various inverte-
Usually seen solitary on open sand substrate adjacent brates or large zooplankton. Swims openly and
to reefs. Sometimes very shallow, but usually in 10-60 usually well above the substrate in coastal as well
m. They feed on sand-invertebrates that are exposed as outer reef habitats at any depth to about 100
by blowing the sand away. Length to 60 cm, common m. Length to 1 m, but usually to 60 cm.
to 40 cm.

A
A. virescens. Maumere, Flores. Depth 20 m. Length 50 cm.
A
S. spilurus. Milne Bay, PHG. Depth 10 m. Length 35 cm.

B C B
S. spilurus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 13 m. Length 45 cm. Searching for prey. S. spilurus. Aquarium. Juveniles, length 10 cm. A. virescens. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 65 cm.

Chinaman Snapper Symphorus nematophorus Small-tooth Jobfish Aphareus furca

Mesoprion nematophorus Bleeker, 1860. Celebes. Labrus furca Lacepède, 1801. Mauritius.

Widespread West Pacific. Adults yellowish brown to Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging to the
reddish. Sometimes shows faint vertical barring. central Pacific. Adults dark-grey with yellowish
Numerous blue lines along scale-rows that are bright- fins and a more or less distinct white spot near
est in sub-adults. Juveniles whitish along lower half of dorsal origin. May show bright yellow on the nape
the body from below eye level. Usually seen solitary during courtship. Small juveniles have a yellow
on sand flats below drop-offs or deep slopes. Length caudal fin. Usually seen solitary but sometimes
to 80 cm, usually to 50 cm. form small, loose aggregations. Open water along
reef slopes and drop-offs to about 70 m depth.
Length to 40 cm.
A
S. nematophorus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 25 m. Length 50 cm.
A
A. furca. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 20 m. Length 35 cm.

B B
S. nematophorus. Menjangan I., Bali. Depth 24 m. Length 40 cm. A. furca. Tomini Bay, Sulawesi. Depth 10 m. Length 30 cm.

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 Pinjalo Snapper Pinjalo pinjalo Fusilier Snapper Paracaesio sordidus
Caesio pinjalo Bleeker, 1850. Java. Paracaesio sordidus Abe & Shinohara, 1962.
Japan.
Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Adults greenish-grey to
reddish with yellowish fins. A schooling species that Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging broadly
appears to open ocean reefs where occuring in shallow to the central Pacific and Indian Ocean west to
depths of a few metres. In most areas they occur deep the Maldives. Adults green or blue-grey with a
and are usually trawled to 100 m depth. Length to 60 cm. reddish caudal fin. Juveniles have a yellow to
orange caudal fin. Typically found along deep
outer reef walls where they mix with various
planktivores at various depths. Reported to 200
m deep. Length to 40 cm.
A
P. pinjalo. Aquarium, Pulau Putri, Java. Length 40 cm.

A
P. sordidus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 15 cm.

B
P. pinjalo. Komodo. Depth 15 m. Length 50 cm.

White-spot Pinjalo Snapper Pinjalo lewisi

Pinjalo lewisi Randall, Allen & Anderson, 1987.
Philippines.

Widespread Indo-West Pacific. Adults greenish or red-

dish. Dark along the top and a distinct white saddle like
spot on the caudal peduncle, often black in front of it.
B
Rarely seen diving but in some areas it visits relativily
shallow reefs in small aggregations. Usually in depths of P. sordidus. Maumere, Flores. Depth 30 m. Length 35 cm.
about 50 m. Length to 50 cm.
False Fusilier Paracaesio xanthurus
Caesio xanthurus Bleeker, 1869.
Madagascar.

A Widespread Indo-West Pacific, ranging broadly

P. lewisi. Jakarta, Aquarium. Length 50 cm. to the central Pacific and into sub-tropical
zones. Bright blue with yellow over the back
running onto the caudal fin. Usually confused
with Caesio teres in Indonesia, a fusilier that has
near identical colours. The latter has black on
the pectoral fin base and a longer snout. The
false fusilier may mix with other species but in
Indonesia it is uncommon in shallow water and
mostly occurs on deep slopes or drop-offs.
Length to 40 cm.

B
P. lewisi. Walindi. Depth 10 m. Length 45 cm. Becca SAUNDERS. P. xanthurus. Tulamben, Bali. Depth 20 m. Length 25 cm.

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 INDONESIAN REEF FISHES - PART 1
FAMILIES, CONTENTS LIST.

MORAY EELS - MURAENIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 TRUMPETERS & GRUNTERS - TERAPONTIDAE . . . . . . .204

SNAKE & WORM EELS - OPHICHTHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 BIGEYES - PRIACANTHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205
CONGER EELS - CONGRIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 CARDINALFISHES - APOGONIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208
GARDEN EELS - HETEROCONGRIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 WHITINGS - SILLAGINIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .235
LINGS - OPHIDIIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 BLANQUILLOS & TILEFISHES - MALACANTHIDAE . . . . .235
FORK-TAILED CATFISHES - ARIIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 COBIA - RACHYCENTRIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .237
EELTAIL CATFISHES - PLOTOSIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 SUCKERFISHES - ECHENEIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238
BANDFISHES - CEPOLIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 TREVALLIES - CARANGIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .239
CONVICT BLENNIES - PHOLIDICHTHYIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 MOONFISHES - MENIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248
CLINGFISHES - GOBIESOCIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 PONYFISHES - LEIOGNATHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249
ANGLERFISHES - ANTENNARIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 SILVERBELLIES - GERREIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250
WALKING BATFISHES - OCGOCEPHALIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 BREAMS - SPARIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252
GARFISHES - HEMIRAMPHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 SPINECHEEKS & WHIPTAILS - NEMIPTERIDAE . . . . . . .253
LONGTOMS - BELONIIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 SWEETLIPS - HAEMILIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .272
HARDYHEADS - ATHERINIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 SNAPPERS - LUTJANIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .282
ANCHOVIES - ENGRAULIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
HERRINGS - CLUPIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
MILKFISHES - CHANIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
BONEFISHES - ALBULIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
TARPONS - MEGALOPIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
LIZARDFISHES - SYNODONTIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
GRINNERS - SYNODONTIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
LANTERNFISHES - MYCTOPHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
FLASHLIGHTFISHES - ANOMALOPIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
SQUIRRELFISHES - HOLOCENTRIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
SOLDIERFISHES - HOLOCENTRIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
SEAHORSES - SYNGNATHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
PIPEFISHES - SYNGNATHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
GHOSTPIPEFISHES - SOLENOSTOMIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
SHRIMPFISHES - CENTRISCIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
TRUMPETFISHES - AULOSTOMIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
FLUTEMOUTHS - FISTULARIIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
SEAMOTHS - PEGASIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
FLYING GURNARDS - DACTYLOPTERIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
LIONFISHES - PTERONINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) . . . . . . . . . . . .108
DEVILFISHES - CHORIDACTYLINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) . . . . . .119
STINGFISHES - MIMOINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
LONGFIN WASPFISHES - APISTINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) . . . . .121
STONEFISHES - SYNANCIINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) . . . . . . . . . .122
SCORPIONFISHES - SCORPAENINAE (SCORPAENIDAE) . . . . .123
CORAL CROUCHERS - CARACANTHIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
WASPFISHES - TETRAROGIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
VELVETFISHES - APLOACTINIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137
FLATHEADS - PLATYCEPHALIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138
GROUPERS & ROCK CODS - EPINEPHELINAE (SERRANIDAE) 143
BASSLETS - ANTHIINAE (SERRANIDAE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171
SOAPFISHES - GRAMMISTIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186
CONGER BLENNIES - CONGROGADIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .189
DOTTYBACKS - PSEUDOCHROMIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .190
LONGFINS - PLESIOPIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201
SPINY BASSLETS - ACANTHOCLINIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202
TRIPLE TAILS - LOBOTIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203
FLAGTAILS - KUHLIDAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203

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