Species: Diagramma pictum
English Name: Painted Sweetlips
Chinese Name: 花石鱸, 少棘胡椒鯛
Family: Haemulidae
Description:
There are five subspecies of D. pictum, which varies in different colors. The Painted Sweetlips found in Southeast Asia are blue-grey with yellow to orange spots on the head, body and fins. The spots on the head often form lines. Can grow up to a length of 100 cm. Inhabits coastal and sandy reef areas. Preys on bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small fishes. Used commercially for aquarium.
© 2008 Jan Messersmith
© 2005 Jan Messersmith
© 2007 Jan Messersmith
Photos used under a Creative Commons license
References:
– Johnson, J.W., J.E. Randall and S.F. Chenoweth 2001. Diagramma melanacrum new species of haemulid fish from Indonesia, Borneo and the Philippines with a generic review. Mem. Queensl. Mus. 46(2):657-676.
– Randall, J.E., G.R. Allen and R.C. Steene, 1990. Fishes of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, Hawaii. 506 p.