| Family: |
Labridae (Wrasses), subfamily: Cheilininae |
| Max. size: |
6.5 cm TL (male/unsexed) |
| Environment: |
reef-associated; marine; depth range 5 - 15 m |
| Distribution: |
Western Central Pacific: southern Philippines and Celebes (Indonesia) to Palau. |
| Diagnosis: |
Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-11; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 9-9 |
| Biology: |
Mainly found in still coastal waters, where brittle corals grow high. Occurs in small groups that feed actively among the lower and dead parts of the corals with coralline algae. Easily overlooked because of its small size. Length to 6.5 cm, but usually much smaller (Ref. 48636). Always hides or stays close to its shelter (Ref. 90102). A secretive species. Feeds on amphipods and other small invertebrates. Rarely found in the aquarium trade. |
| IUCN Red List Status: |
Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 25 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
|
| Threat to humans: |
harmless |
Source and more info: www.fishbase.org. For personal, classroom, and other internal use only. Not for publication.
