Pseudanthias randalli (Lubbock & Allen, 1978)
Randall's fairy basslet
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Anthiadidae (Fairy basslets or Streamer basses)
Max. size:  9.5 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 15 - 120 m
Distribution:  Pacific Ocean: Philippines to Niue, north to the Ryukyu Islands.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 10-10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15-17; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 7-8. Males develop a slightly protruding upper lip and become striped in red and magenta (Ref. 37816). Females with yellow snout (Ref. 48635). Description: Characterized by having greatest depth of body at 2.6-3.0 in SL; prolonged third dorsal spine; lunate caudal fin with prolonged lobes in male (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Occurs in caves or coral rubble areas along steep drop-offs or channel walls (Ref. 9710). Benthopelagic (Ref. 58302). Found in small groups (Ref. 9710).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 12 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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