Malakichthys levis Yamanoue & Matsuura, 2002
Smooth seabass
photo by Yamanoue, Y.

Family:  Malakichthyidae (Temperate ocean-basses)
Max. size:  15.9 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  bathypelagic; marine; depth range 143 - 256 m
Distribution:  Eastern Indian Ocean: northern Australia, from the North West Cape, Western Australia to Cape Arnhem, Northern Territory.
Diagnosis:  Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 8-8. This species is distinct in having the following characters: no paired spines on chin; proximal-middle radial of first anal-fin pterygiophore is broad with cone-shaped hollow lacking lamellar septum; well developed lateral wing; A III, 8; pectoral-fin rays 14; gill rakers on lower arm 20-23; 49-53 scales on lateral line; 5-7 transverse scale rows above lateral line; body depth 26-35% SL (Ref. 76883).
Biology: 
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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