Stalix dicra Smith-Vaniz, 1989
Forked jawfish
Stalix dicra
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Opistognathidae (Jawfishes)
Max. size:  3.9 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 25 - 30 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 11-11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-11; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 11-11. Description: Characterized by tan brown color on upper head and body; median fins yellowish; anterior of dorsal fin with black spot, preceded by small white spot; first 6-7 dorsal spines forked distally and skin covering spinous dorsal fin forming broad dorsal hood to cover forked portion of spines; oblique scale rows about 43-46; depth of body 5.1-6.1 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Mouthbrooders. Eggs which are clumped together in a sticky ball get incubated inside the parent's mouth (Ref. 40511). Found in sand/rubble areas in 25-30 m (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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