Pictichromis aurifrons (Lubbock, 1980)
Gold-browed dottyback
Pictichromis aurifrons
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Pseudochromidae (Dottybacks), subfamily: Pseudochrominae
Max. size:  6.5 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 13 - 30 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Indonesia (Ref. 48635) and Papua New Guinea (Ref. 90102).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 3-3; Dorsal soft rays (total): 22-22; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 10-12. This species is distinguished from its congeners by having a bright yellow snout/ forehead that grades into a light purple to bluish-grey coloration over the remainder of the head and body (Ref. 74963). Description: Characterized by having 32-37 anterior lateral line scales; depth of body 27.8-30.2 % of SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Found in sheltered habitats with rich coral growth to about 30 m depth (Ref. 48635). Observed in western New Guinea in habitats of silty dead coral reef, near the base of steep slopes 13-29 m depths; these reefs are characterised by numerous small caverns/overhangs and fish were usually seen adjacent to vertical surfaces. They appear to occupy territories or home ranges of about 2 sq. m and are often encountered solitarily, sometimes in loosely associated pairs (Ref. 74963).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 22 July 2021 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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