Oxymetopon typus Bleeker, 1861
Sailfin ribbon-goby
Oxymetopon typus
photo by Kuiter, R.H.

Family:  Microdesmidae (Wormfishes), subfamily: Ptereleotrinae
Max. size:  18 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 15 - 40 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 6-7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 31-31; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 31-31. Description: Characterized by bluish grey to greyish brown body color; series of vertical blue bars on side; forehead with blue teardrop shaped mark tapering to form mid-dorsal stripe ending at dorsal fin origin; side of head with colored short blue bands and spots; numerous scales, at least 105 in longitudinal scale series; more or less rounded head profile with concavity in front of eyes; longest dorsal spines about twice length of longest soft rays, exceeding greatest body depth; depth of body 4.5-5.3 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Inhabits deep muddy slopes, subject to strong currents. Usually seen in small groups, often of mixed sizes (Ref. 48637).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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