Latin name

Ecsenius dilemma

Other names

Ecsenius dilemma

Identification

Small and slender fish. Has 31-32 vertebrae.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-13; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 14-15.

Fish colouring

Have a pale pink head; cream colored body with three bluish-brown or orange lateral stripes running the length of the body from the head; transverse black stripes along the length of the body, the first two and the sixth stripes not completely dissecting the body.

Distribution

Widespread in the western Pacific, especially in the Philippines. 

Habitat

Marine tropical species. Depth range from 1 to 34 meters. Inhabit coral reefs. 

Size

The maximum length can reach 3.1 centimeters.

Behavior

Found on coral reefs, sand, gravel and coral bottoms. Larvae are planktonic, often inhabiting shallow coastal waters.

Food and feeding habits

Juveniles of this species feed primarily on bottom algae and weeds. 

Reproduction

Laying eggs. They form pairs. Their eggs are bottom and adhesive and are attached to the substrate with a fibrous adhesive pad or support. 

Fishing

Fished for sale to aquariums.

Relationship with a person

A colorful fish that will enliven any aquarium.