The Headstripe prettyfin (Plesiops cephalotaenia) is a saltwater fish of the family Plesiopidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Palau and others
Description
The Headstripe prettyfin is a prettyfin (Plesiopidae) from shallow rocky and coral-reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an elongate, dark body with fine light spots and conspicuously large, rounded dorsal, anal and pelvic fins. As a nocturnal, shy bottom-dweller it shelters deep in crevices and caves by day and hunts small crustaceans and small fish at night. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Headstripe prettyfin?
The Headstripe prettyfin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Headstripe prettyfin live?
The Headstripe prettyfin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Indonesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Palau and others
How big does the Headstripe prettyfin get?
The Headstripe prettyfin grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Headstripe prettyfin dangerous to humans?
No, the Headstripe prettyfin is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plesiops
More from the family Plesiopidae

Want the complete picture on the Headstripe prettyfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Headstripe prettyfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.