Prionurus microlepidotus Lacepède, 1804
Sixplate sawtail
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Acanthuridae (Surgeonfishes, tangs, unicornfishes), subfamily: Prionurinae
Max. size:  70 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; brackish; marine
Distribution:  Western Pacific: eastern Australia, including Lord Howe Island (Ref. 2334) and Japan (Ref. 27683).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 8-8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 21-22; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 20-21. Colour grey-brown with indistinct dark bars on side of body, the 5 to 7 peduncular plates black. Body depth of subadults about 2 times in SL, the body becoming more elongate with age (to as much 3 times in SL in large adults). Adults developing a pronounced protuberance anteriorly on snout (Ref 9808).
Biology:  Occurs along rocky shores and feeds on benthic algae. Juveniles found in estuaries and bays (Ref. 9710).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 07 May 2010 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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