Harlequin Smiler, Opistognathus eximius (Ogilby, 1908)
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© R. March
Fast Facts
-
Classification
- Genus
- Opistognathus
- Species
- eximius
- Family
- Opistognathidae
- Order
- Perciformes
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Subphylum
- Vertebrata
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Kingdom
- Animalia
-
- Size Range
- The species grows to 40 cm in length.
Introduction
The Harlequin Smiler, like all the aptly named jawfishes has a very large mouth. In Australia it is known from central to southern Queensland.
Identification
The Harlequin Smiler is golden-yellow above and blue-purple below. There are blue-edged yellow spots on the sides and a deep blue blotch on the operculum. The dorsal fin has yellow stripes and the anal fin has yellow spots. The Harlequin Smiler, like all the aptly named jawfishes has a very large mouth.
Distribution
It occurs in tropical marine waters of the Western Central Pacific. In Australia it is known from central to southern Queensland.
The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.
References
- Grant, E.M. 1982. Guide to Fishes. The Department of Harbours and Marine, Brisbane, Queensland. Pp. 896.
- Hoese, D.F., Bray, D.J., Paxton, J.R. & G.R. Allen. 2006. Fishes. In Beesley, P.L. & A. Wells. (eds) Zoological Catalogue of Australia. Volume 35. ABRS & CSIRO Publishing: Australia. parts 1-3, pages 1-2178.
