Latin name

Monocentris japonica

Other name

Monocentris japonica

Identification

The body of the Japanese pineapple fish is short, thick, covered with a kind of shell with clearly defined large scales. These fish have luminescent organs on either side of the lower jaw, filled with luminescent bacteria whose purpose is unknown, perhaps they help the fish see at night or attract prey.

Features of fish fins

The dorsal fin has 5-6 hard and 11-12 soft rays. The spines in the dorsal fin are rigid, not connected by membranes. The anal fin has 9-11 soft rays. The pelvic fins are large and have a locking mechanism.

Fish colouring

The body of the Japanese pineapple fish is yellow, the edges of the scales are black and the lower jaw is black.

Distribution

Widespread in the Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and southern Africa to Indonesia, and from southern Japan to Australia and New Zealand. 

Habitat

They live at depths of 10 to 200 metres, both in rocky areas and on coral reefs. 

Size

Fish of this species can reach up to 17 cm in length, but 12 cm is more common. 

Behavior

Monocentris japonica is nocturnal and hides in caves and under ledges during the day.

Food and feeding habits

Japanese pineapple fish feed mainly on zooplankton, especially small crustaceans and shrimps.

Reproduction

Nothing is known about the breeding biology of this species. 

Fishing

This species is not targeted by fisheries, but is often caught as by-catch by commercial trawlers.

Relationship with a person

These fish are often kept in an aquarium as they are not aggressive.