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: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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