saltwater, reef fish
Stripey
Microcanthus strigatus
Deep, compressed, disc-shaped body. Features 6 to 8 prominent, slightly oblique horizontal-tending black stripes on a bright yellow to silvery-white background. The stripes extend onto the dorsal and anal fins. It has a small mouth and a forked caudal fin.
- Habitat
- Inhabits subtropical and temperate coastal reefs, rocky…
- Size & weight
- Typically reaches a length of 12 to 15 cm (4.7 to 5.9 in…
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Physical characteristics
Deep, compressed, disc-shaped body. Features 6 to 8 prominent, slightly oblique horizontal-tending black stripes on a bright yellow to silvery-white background. The stripes extend onto the dorsal and anal fins. It has a small mouth and a forked caudal fin.
Habitat & distribution
Inhabits subtropical and temperate coastal reefs, rocky shorelines, and estuaries. Found in the Western and Eastern Pacific, including Hawaii, Australia, Japan, and the coast of China. Usually found at depths between 1 and 20 meters.
Ecological role
Omnivorous feeder that grazes on small crustaceans, mollusks, and algae. They are often found in large schools. Conservation status is currently 'Least Concern' according to the IUCN Red List, with stable populations.
Similar species
Footballer Sweep (Neatypus obliquus) which has more vertical bars, and the Moonlighter (Tilodon sexfasciatus) which has broader, more vertical bands and a different body profile.