Steeneichthys nativitatus Allen, 1987
Christmas longfin
Steeneichthys nativitatus
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Plesiopidae (Roundheads), subfamily: Plesiopinae
Max. size:  3.2 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; marine; depth range 30 - 40 m
Distribution:  Eastern Indian Ocean: Christmas Island and Indonesia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 9-9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-9; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 7-7. Description: Characterized by brown color; center of each scale darker forming series of dark stripes on side corresponding with horizontal scale rows; dark brown fins except pectorals; all fins with white margin except pelvics, widest on dorsal fins (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Eggs are guarded by the male parent (Ref. 205). Found in reef crevices in about 15-40 m (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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