Rhabdamia spilota Allen & Kuiter, 1994
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Apogonidae (Cardinalfishes), subfamily: Apogoninae
Max. size:  6 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 20 - 55 m
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 7-7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-9; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 12-12; Vertebrae: 24-24. This species is distinguished by having D VI-I,9; A II,12; pectoral rays 13; total gill rakers on first arch 7+22; preopercular margin and ridge finely smooth; body very slender, depth 3.7-3.8 in SL; body semi transparent, whitish in life with 3-4 small dark spots midlaterally on operculum and above basal part of pectoral fin (Ref. 11894).
Biology:  Swims in tight pairs (Ref. 48635); observed to occur in large aggregation around rocky outcrops with gorgonian fans and crinoids on steep slopes. Swims actively during the day above isolated coral heads to feed on zooplankton (Ref. 48635).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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