Gnatholepis knighti Jordan & Evermann, 1903
Gnatholepis knighti
photo by Torres-Pulliza, D.

Family:  Gobiidae (Gobies), subfamily: Gobionellinae
Max. size:  6.4 cm SL (male/unsexed); 6.1 cm SL (female)
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; marine; depth range 0 - 5 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Known only from the Hawaiian island chain.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 7-8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10-12; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 10-11. This large stocky Gnatholepis species (up to 64 mm SL) is distinguished by the following characters: cycloid scales on predorsal region, cheek and pectoral fin base; a distinct flap present at end of lower lip; 3 or more dark spots along first spine of first and second dorsal fins, followed by at least 3 rows of dark spots or short streaks; pectoral fin plain translucent to pale brownish; transverse black line crossing upper part of eye usually split in 2; anal fin plain dusky, often with one to several blackish rounded to oval spots posteriorly, or with dark streaks following membrane; D2 and A nearly always I,11; pectoral rays 15-17 (usually 16); lateral scales 25-29 (usually 27); predorsal scales 7-10 (usually 8-9) (Ref. 92171).
Biology:  Most specimens have been collected from shallow habitats, tide pools or 'brackish pools', at depths of 0-5 m, from sand and mangrove areas (Ref. 92171).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 13 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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