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Opistognathus challenger Smith-Vaniz, 2023 |
| Family: | Opistognathidae (Jawfishes) | |||
| Max. size: | 7.64 cm SL (male/unsexed) | |||
| Environment: | demersal; marine; depth range - 149 m | |||
| Distribution: | Western Pacific: the Philippines. | |||
| Diagnosis: | Dorsal spines (total): 11-11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-11; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 11-11; Vertebrae: 30-30. This species is distinguished by the following characters: with a rigid upper jaw lacking flexible lamina posteriorly, extending 0.6 eye diameters behind posterior margin of orbit; D XI,11; A II,11; vertebrae 10+16; area above lateral line anteriorly with 3-4 rows of scales; body with approximately 44 oblique scale rows in horizontal series; total gill rakers on first arch 30. Colouration: spinous dorsal fin with a dark spot between spines 1-2 and extending to anterior margin of spine 4, the chin slightly dusky and no dark postorbital spot (Ref. 128653). | |||
| Biology: | ||||
| IUCN Red List Status: | Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 17 September 2024 Ref. (130435) | |||
| Threat to humans: | harmless | |||