Plectorhinchus plagiodesmus Fowler, 1935
Barred rubberlip
photo by Tyler, E.

Family:  Haemulidae (Grunts), subfamily: Plectorhinchinae
Max. size:  90 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Somalia to Natal, South Africa and Madagascar.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 13-14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15-16; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 7-7. Body with 12 oblique alternating black bars, specimens up to 40 cm with orange bars present between black bars, these orange bars fade in larger specimens; lips orange or yellow in color (Ref. 2799).
Biology:  Occur in coastal, generally turbid reefs (Ref. 9710). Adults in coral crevices with protruding lips looking like orange sponge. Frequently in pairs (Ref. 5213).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 28 June 2018 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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