Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides

Family: Haemulidae

Common Name: Harlequin sweetlips

Scientific Name : Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides

Maximum length : 50cm

IUCN Red List Status : Not Evaluated

Adult profusely covered with brown spots on body and fins, belly whitish. Juvenile brown with large white spots on head and body. Large juvenile and subadult with combination of juvenile pattern of large white spots and spotted pattern of adult, but spots much larger.

Inhabits coral-rich areas of clear lagoon and seaward reefs. Adults are solitary, near and under ledges or caves by day. Juveniles are found among corals. Feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, and fishes at night. Juveniles are used in the aquarium industry. Small juveniles may mimic a toxic flatworm. Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding.

From southwest Sumatra to Bali Strait; also known from Flores and Mentawai Islands. Also recorded from Raja Ampat Islands, Komodo, Manado and vicinity, Pulau Bintan, Sangalakki Island, Togean and Banggai Islands and Pulau Weh

Photo 1 : Photo courtesy Marcel Wardis
Photo 2 : Photo courtesy Richard Ling
Photo 3 : Photo courtesy Bernard DUPONT

Reference :
- http://www.fishbase.org/summary/PLECTORHINCHUS-CHAETODONOIDES.html
- Allen, G R, Erdmannn, M V., 2012. Reef Fishes of the East Indies : Volume II. Singapore : Tropical Reef Research