Manonichthys polynemus (Fowler, 1931)
Longfin dottyback
Manonichthys polynemus
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Pseudochromidae (Dottybacks), subfamily: Pseudochrominae
Max. size:  12 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 2 - 50 m
Distribution:  Western Pacific: northeastern Indonesia and Palau.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 3-3; Dorsal soft rays (total): 27-29; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 14-15. Recognized by the long ventral fins, filamentous median fins, and yellow tear-mark below the eye. Found on steep slopes and walls with tubular sponges, usually in depths of about 20 m (Ref. 48635). Description: Characterized by having brown to grey brown color; scales with pale spots forming longitudinal rows; base of pelvic fins with orange blotch; dorsal and anal fins with black margins; female having pelvic and anal fins with more yellow color; anterior lateral-line scales 18-32; predorsal scales 17-19; depth of body 32.3-35.9 % of SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  An uncommon species that inhabits steep outer reef slopes, in areas with dense coral growth (Ref. 9710). Solitary, sometimes seen entering sponges (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 10 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless
Country info:  Reports from Ref. 1602, 37816 and 48635 refer to a different species (Ref. 81967). Also Ref. 90102.


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