Aioliops brachypterus Rennis & Hoese, 1987
Shortfin minidartfish
Aioliops brachypterus
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Microdesmidae (Wormfishes), subfamily: Ptereleotrinae
Max. size:  2.4 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 3 - 10 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 4-7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-10; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 10-11. Description: Characterized by head and back grey colored grading to pinkish orange on side; midlateral stripe yellow; upper half of eye (iris), yellow; bluish fins; basal portion of caudal fin with large black spot; body without scales; two preopercular pores; gill membrane attached behind posterior preopercular margin; short caudal peduncle, 18.9-20.8 % of SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Occurs in midwater aggregations of up to 50 individuals; inhabits sheltered waters of turbid lagoons in about 3-10 m (Ref. 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU); Date assessed: 26 January 2009 (B1ab(iii)) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless
Country info:  Type locality: Mini Rock Island (Miniloc Island), El Nido Island (Ref. 40966).


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