Humpnose big-eye breamMonotaxis grandoculis
Category
- Fringing Reef
Description
Monotaxis grandoculis, of the order Perciformes and Lethrinidae (Emperors or scavengers) is commonly known as the Humpnose Big-eye Bream, Bigeye Barenose, Bigeye Bream or Bigeye Emperor. This bream has an overall silver-grey colour with narrow, dark scale margins. There is a large black blotch behind the pectoral fin base. Their lips are yellowish. There are four large dark bars with white interspaces on their body. It has a total of 10 dorsal spines, 10 dorsal soft rays, 3 anal spines and 9 anal soft rays[1]. Juveniles have three large dark brown-black bars on the body and a black bar that extends through the eye. There is an orange or reddish band along the outer caudal fin lobes[2].
Habitat and ecology
This species is present across the Indo-Pacific region. It is found on coral reefs and sandy areas. The recorded depth range is between 3 to 60m. Their diet also consists of gastropods, echinoids, polychaetes, tunicates, holothurians and crabs. Individuals can be solitary or in large groups.
Conservation and management
According to the IUCN Red list, this species is categorized as being of ‘Least Concern’ as it is common and widespread. It is collected for consumption and there are localised declines. No conservation measures are in place for this species, but it is part of certain management plans. It is also is present in many MPAs.[1].
Did you know?
This species can reach a maximum recorded length of 60 cm.
