Latin name

Ptereleotris evides

Other names

Scissortail goby, Arrow Goby, Blackfin Dartfish, Sailfin Hover goby, Scissortail Dartfish, Spottail Gudgeon , Twotone Dartfish.

Identification

Body elongated, head small with wide mouth and rather large eyes. Vertebrae: 26. Chin with low fleshy projection, tapering to a low longitudinal fold behind.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 23-26; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 23-26.

Fish colouring

In life pale bluish gray, turning black behind; snout blackish; elytra with iridescent blue markings. Caudal fin blades blackish to dark reddish, broad mid-posterior part of fin whitish to yellowish; 1st dorsal fin dull orange; 2nd dorsal and anal fins mostly blackish; base of thorax with orange or orange-red band edged in blue. Juveniles with oval black spot larger than eye on lower caudal fin.

Distribution

Inhabit the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean, along the coasts of Madagascar, Philippines, Kenya, Comoros, Mauritius, Seychelles.

Habitat

A tropical marine species. Found on the outer slopes of reefs, also in lagoons and bays, at depths from 2 to 15 meters (6.6 to 49.2 feet).

Size

Can reach a length of 14 centimeters (5.5 inches). 

Behavior

Adults usually live in pairs, while juveniles live in small groups. They hide in reefs at the slightest danger.

Food and feeding habits

They feed on zooplankton 1-2 m above the bottom. 

Reproduction

Monogamous mating is considered obligate and social. It will not breed under aquarium conditions.

Fishing

Fished for the aquarium trade.

Relationship with a person

Found in aquarium stores.