Belonepterygion fasciolatum (Ogilby, 1889)
Barred spiny basslet
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Plesiopidae (Roundheads), subfamily: Acanthoclininae
Max. size:  5 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 10 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Western Pacific: Japan south to Australia; east to New Caledonia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 17-20; Dorsal soft rays (total): 4-5; Anal spines: 10-12; Anal soft rays: 3-5. Similar to A. hiatti but differs by having a lateral line in 3 parts, more lateral scale rows (35-36 versus 28-30), and no spines in the operculum. Description: Characterized by generally brown color except tan to pinkish on lower half of head; about 15 dark bars on body; white stripes on forehead and behind eye; gill cover with prominent pale-edged dark spot; sensory pores on dentary 4; absence of papillae on head; depth of body at origin of dorsal fin 4.0-4.4 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Found in tidal pools around coral reefs and lagoons (Ref. 559). Benthic (Ref. 75154). Eggs are guarded by the male parent (Ref. 205). Solitary, secretive crevice dweller (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 21 April 2022 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless
Country info:   
 


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