Parapercis punctata (Cuvier, 1829)
Parapercis punctata
photo by Ho, H.-C.

Family:  Pinguipedidae (Sandperches)
Max. size:  14.27 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; marine; depth range - 75 m
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 5-5; Dorsal soft rays (total): 21-21; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 17-17. This species is distinguished by the following characters: unequal color pattern of numerous black spots on dorsal surface of head and anterior portion of body, row of 8 black blotches laterally along upper body and irregular narrow bands on caudal fin; D V,21; A I,17; pectoral-fin rays 16-17; pored lateral-line scales 52 or 53; transverse scale rows 4.5/14-16; total gill rakers 14-15; circumpeduncular scales rows 25-26; sensory pores above the maxilla 3 and one large pore at front of chin; free margin of preoperculum strongly serrated; a short prolongation on upper lobe of caudal fin (Ref. 101021).
Biology: 
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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