Fish, coral, rays and other marine species documented in Maldivian waters.
| Name | Dhivehi | Scientific | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
Nala hikaa | Halichoeres cosmetus | Halichoeres cosmetus, which derives its name from the Greek word meaning "adorne… | |
Africa faana | Liopropoma africanum | Liopropoma africanum has previously only been reported once from the Maldives, b… | |
Naruvaa handhi | Alectis ciliaris | The similar A. indicus also occurs in the Indian Ocean, and is distinct from Ale… | |
Andhun mas | Seriola rivoliana | The distinctive dark eye bar of Seriola rivoliana gives this species its local n… | |
Haluvi thaakihaa koli | Canthigaster amboinensis | Canthigaster amboinensis is one of the faster-swimming species of the genus and … | |
Thijjehi faana | Epinephelus areolatus | Epinephelus areolatus is an attractive species, characterized by its pale brown … | |
Lah kothari hikaa | Bodianus axillaris | The species Bodianus axillaris undergoes a remarkable colour change as it grows,… | |
Kashi gonu | Lactoria fornasini | Lactoria fornasini, like other cowfishes and boxfishes, is a slow swimmer that p… | |
Mas muguraan | Pterocaesio pisang | Pterocaesio pisang is a bait of major importance for tuna fishery in the Maldive… | |
Naruvaa fulhangi | Exocoetus monocirrhus | Exocoetus monocirrhus, like other flying fishes, is capable of leaping out of th… | |
Thimara handhi | Carangoides plagiotaenia | Many of the trevallies and jacks are difficult to tell apart, but Carangoides pl… | |
Kattafulhi | Kuhlia mugil | Kuhila mugil is not shy of humans at all; during the day, it can be found school… | |
Galhi kendi thunbodu hikaa | Hemigymnus fasciatus | The Hamigymnus fasciatus feeds by taking mouthfuls of sand, sorting the material… | |
Galhi kendi hikaa | Coris batuensis | Coris batuensis, sometimes referred to as C. schroederi (a synonym), is very clo… | |
Saiboani faana | Pogonoperca ocellata | Pogonoperca ocellata, like other soap fishes, secretes copious quantities of muc… | |
Reendhoomas | Lutjanus bengalensis | The Lutjanus bengalensis is very similar in appearance to the Lutjanus kasmira; … | |
Faiymini bibee | Chaetodon bennetti | The beautiful Chaetodon bennetti butterflyfish is difficult to maintain in an aq… | |
Dheburi dhekula venfunna | Ecsenius bicolor | The Ecsenius bicolor, with its three distinct color phases, is a favorite among … | |
Dhon theyofulhi mas | Labroides bicolor | Labroides bicolor, the largest of the genus, is a cleaner wrasse that is more in… | |
Mushimas | Selar crumenophthalmus | The widespread species Selar crumenophthalmus is commonly found in shallow lagoo… | |
Loabodu kandi miyaru | Alopias superciliosus | Alopias superciliosus can be easily distinguished from other species of thresher… | |
Haluvimas | Caranx sexfasciatus | Caranx sexfasciatus is mainly caught by night handline and is commonly found on … | |
Loabodu kanneli | Thunnus obesus | Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) is similar to and often confused with yellowfin tun… | |
Mendhan miyaru | Carcharhinus altimus | Carcharhinus altimus is considered to be a bottom-dwelling shark, and in the Mal… | |
Theyofulhi hikaa | Gomphosus caeruleus | The Gomphosus caeruleus is easily distinguishable from other Maldivian fish spec… | |
Foniyamas | Macolor niger | Juveniles of the two species of Macolor, Macolor niger and Macolor macularis, ar… | |
Kalhali bibee | Chaetodon melannotus | The common species Chaetodon melannotus, which has an exquisitely patterned body… | |
Fukkoli | Arothron immaculatus | Arothron immaculatus, like other pufferfishes, is capable of inflating its body … | |
Kalhu kothari raiverimas | Neoniphon opercularis | Neoniphon opercularis is the largest and most common species of its genus in the… | |
Kalhu kothari alathandu | Parapercis signata | Divers rarely encounter Parapercis signata due to its deep-dwelling habits, and … | |
Kalhu mas hibaru | Makaira indica | Makaira indica can be easily distinguished from M. mazara by its rigid pectoral … | |
Oimathi bibee | Hemitaurichthys zoster | Hemitaurichthys zoster is very common in the Maldives and is unusual for a butte… | |
Kula olhufaana | Plectropomus laevis | There has been confusion in the past in identifying Plectropomus laevis due to i… | |
Thijjehi gaaboa | Paracirrhites forsteri | Paracirrhitus forsteri is a common hawkfish found in the Maldivian reefs, often … | |
Burandha | Abudefduf sordidus | Abudefduf sordidus is a very hardy aquarium fish, but it is not very colorful an… | |
Fulhaarongu boadhi | Apogon nigrofasciatus | Apogon nigrofasciatus has been called A. aroubiensis Hombron and Jacquinot, but … | |
Dhon mas | Lutjanus fulvus | The blacktail snapper, Lutjanus fulvus, with its fine grey-yellow colouration, i… | |
Raiy galhi faana | Epinephelus fasciatus | The red bands on the sides of Epinephelus fasciatus can be turned on and off qui… | |
Uraha kalhu miyaru, Falhu miyaru | Carcharhinus melanopterus | Carcharhinus melanopterus is a shallow water species, commonly seen by snorkeler… | |
Thun hima miyaru | Carcharhinus limbatus | Four specimens of Carcharhinus limbatus have been recorded in the Maldives only … | |
Kalhu kothari dhanbodu | Myripristis melanosticta | Myripristis melanosticta is a moderately deep-dwelling species, and is the secon… | |
Kalha handhi | Caranx lugubris | Caranx lugubris is likely to be confused with C. ignobilis, but can be distingui… | |
Kalhu rondu | Melichthys niger | Melichthys niger is very similar in appearance to M. indicus, which was mentione… | |
Kothari reendhoo dhanbodu | Myripristis berndti | Myripristis berndti is most likely to be confused with M. murdjan, however, they… | |
Mushimas handhi | Carangoides gymnostethus | This species, previously known as Carangoides gymnostethoides, is not commonly f… | |
Dhon noo faana | Epinephelus flavocaeruleus | With its very distinctive color pattern, Epinephelus flavocaeruleus is one of th… | |
Boa reendhoo kokaamas | Pomacanthus xanthometopon | Pomacanthus xanthometopon is one of the most spectacular Maldivian reef fishes, … | |
Fani handhi | Caranx melampygus | Caranx melampygus is the most common jack found on Maldivian reefs, and it is kn… | |
Nilamehi | Chromis viridis | Chromis viridis is commonly used as bait for pole and line tuna fishery in the M… | |
Max. 3.8 m | Prionace glauca | The Prionace glauca is the widest-ranging chondrichthyian, but it is not very co… | |
Noomas | Paracaesio sordidus | Paracaesio sordidus can easily be distinguished from the related Paracaesio xant… | |
Onugandu tholhi | Fistularia commersonii | Fistularia commersonii is a more active swimmer than other cornet fishes, and wa… | |
Hondeli | Spratelloides delicatulus | Spretelloides delicatulus is widely used as bait for pole and line tuna fishing … | |
Fansooru mas | Plagiotremus rhinorhynchos | Plagiotremus rhinorhynchos, which was previously recorded under the genus Runula… | |
Dhon reendhoomas | Lutjanus kasmira | This common species, Lutjanus kasmira, can be distinguished from L. bengalensis … | |
Gumbalha | Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus | Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus forms large schools during the day in shallow la… | |
Noorongu venu bandeyri | Doryrhamphus excisus excisus | The Red Sea sub-species D. excisus abbreviatus has been identified, and its clos… | |
Noo kaalhu | Acanthurus leucosternon | Acanthurus leucosternon is a popular species among aquarists, primarily due to i… | |
Dhabaru handhi | Carangoides ferdau | The many golden spots on the sides of Carangoides ferdau give it its Dhivehi nam… | |
Baiypen hikaa | Thalassoma amblycephalum | T. melanochir (Bleeker) is a synonym based on the terminal male of Thalassoma am… | |
Madu miyaru | Hexanchus griseus | Hexanchus griseus is commonly caught in the fishery for deepwater spiny dogfish,… | |
Dhon falhu rondu | Sufflamen bursa | The common inhabitant of Maldivian reefs, Sufflamen bursa, can be easily disting… | |
Kas faana | Epinephelus fuscoguttatus | Epinephelus fuscoguttatus is often confused with E. polyphekadion (previously kn… | |
Attamas | Remora remora | The Remora remora is easily distinguished by the presence of a sucking disc on t… | |
Kulhandhuru faana | Epinephelus chlorostigma | Epinephelus cholorostigma is often confused with E. areolatus, but the latter ca… | |
Mushi thiki alathandu | Parapercis millepunctata | Parapercis millepunctata is the most common species of the genus at many localit… | |
Kalhu dhunfaiy mas | Zebrasoma scopas | Zebraomorpha scopas is one of the most common Maldivian reef fishes, but its rat… | |
Mushi rondu | Sufflamen fraenatus | Sufflamen fraenatus is a species that dwells relatively deep in the ocean, with … | |
Geburu raagondi | Auxis rochei | Auxis rochei is similar in appearance to A. thazard, but differs in a number of … | |
Kula faana | Epinephelus polyphekadion | Epinephelus polyphekadion can be easily confused with E. fuscoguttatus, but can … | |
Haluvi bibee | Chaetodon trifascialis | Chaetodon trifascialis is an obligate coralivore and is not recommended as an aq… | |
Dhaiy thoonu hikaa | Pseudodax molucannus | Pseudodax molucannus is the only species of its genus and can be easily distingu… | |
Ilolhi hikaa | Cheilio inermis | The garish green coloration of Cheilio inermis helps it to camouflage within the… | |
Rulhigadha bibee | Chaetodon citrinellus | The species Chaetodon citrinellus is known to be aggressive, often erecting its … | |
Maagandu mas | Amphiprion clarkii | The most widespread species in the genus Amphiprion clarkii is found right acros… | |
Theyofulhi mas | Labroides dimidiatus | Unlike L. bicolor (previous page), Labroides dimidiatus not only enters the mout… | |
Hulhu fanhaamas | Pterois radiata | Pterois radiata is easily recognized by the pair of horizontal white lines along… | |
Bis rondu | Balistoides conspicillum | The strikingly colored Balistoides conspicillum is highly sought after in the aq… | |
Vabboa handhi | Carangoides caeruleopinnatus | While not common, Carangoides caeruleopinnatus appears to be the most frequent o… | |
Koabiya | Rachycentron canadum | Rachycentron canadum, a large predatory fish related to remoras (family Echneida… | |
Kalaru bibee | Chaetodon collare | The Chaetodon collare is a very sedate mover, and its fine coloration gives it a… | |
Dhunthari mas | Calloplesiops altivelis | Calloplesiops altivelis is fairly common on protected coral reefs in the Maldive… | |
Dhunthari faana | Epinephelus morrhua | Several specimens of the large deepwater grouper Epinephelus morrhua were caught… | |
Maa bohmas | Antennarius commersonii | Antennarius commersonii, like other frogfishes (or anglers), is highly camouflag… | |
Fiyala | Coryphaena hippurus | Coryphaena hippurus, which is much more common and larger than its closely relat… | |
Uniya | Gerres oyena | Gerres oyena is commonly found in shallow, sandy lagoons of the Maldives and was… | |
Raabulhaa | Acanthurus triostegus | The common species Acanthurus triostegus is found in the Maldives, but it holds … | |
Koveli faana, Bulhala faana | Cephalopholis miniata | Cephalopholis miniata is one of the most common and beautiful coral groupers, an… | |
Hungumas | Priacanthus hamrur | Piracanthus hamrur is a common inhabitant of Maldivian reefs, and is closely rel… | |
Jambu giulhu | Pristipomoides filamentosus | Until recently, Pristipomoides filamentosus was thought to be rare in the Maldiv… | |
Seetu raiverimas | Sargocentron diadema | Sargocentron diadema is a relatively common squirrelfish, and is likely the most… | |
Garahitha muguraan | Pterocaesio tile | Pterocaesio tile is one of the most common fusiliers in the Maldives, with juven… | |
Kanfaiy kalhu faana | Cephalopholis urodeta | Juveniles of Cephalopholis urodeta, previously recorded as C. nigripinnis, are s… | |
Maa kalhuoh’ | Parupeneus barberinus | The Parupeneus barberinus, like other goatfishes, uses its barbels to probe the … | |
Dingaa funna | Amblyeleotris aurora | Amblyeleotris aurora does not dig a hole for itself if there is a snapping shrim… | |
Nala funna | Istigobius decoratus | The coloration of Istigobius decoratus is highly variable depending on the local… | |
Fun nilamehi | Chromis delta | Chromis delta is a common species in the Maldives, but it is often overlooked by… | |
Dhunfaiy mas | Zebrasoma desjardinii | The species Zebrasoma desjardinii, which is unique to the Indian Ocean, is very … | |
Thinthiki hikaa | Bodianus diana | Bodianus diana is fairly common in Maldivian reefs, and its juvenile form is kno… | |
Miyakan hudhu hikaa | Pseudocheilinus evanidus | The English name of the secretive species Pseudocheilinus evanidus is "disappear… | |
Kurehi hikaa | Macropharyngodon bipartitus | The Macropharyngodon bipartitus is a small, dull-looking wrasse at first glance,… | |
Woshimas | Gymnosarda unicolor | Unlike other tunas, Gymnosarda unicolor is usually associated with coral reefs a… | |
Kashi vaali, Hondeli fahaa valli, Eka vaali | Scomberoides lysan | Scomberoides lysan is not a particularly common species, but it is caught occasi… | |
Mushi hikaa | Halichoeres marginatus | The rather sombre Halichoeres marginatus species is often overlooked, but upon c… | |
Kalhu faana | Epinephelus octofasciatus | The species Epinephelus octofasciatus was previously misidentified as E. septemf… | |
Fari dhidha funna | Nemateleotris decora | Nemateleotris decora is one of the most remarkably colored dart fishes in the Ma… | |
Ras kokaamas | Pomacanthus imperator | Adult Pomacanthus imperator form territories which they vigorously defend agains… | |
Maaginimas | Lutjanus sebae | The Emperor Red Snapper, Lutjanus sebae, can easily be recognized by its distinc… | |
Rongu theyomas | Lepidocybium flavobrunneum | Like other Gempylids, Lepidocybium flavobrunneum is a moderately deep water fish… | |
Fari hikaa | Cirrhilabrus exquisitus | The species Cirrhilabrus exquisitus, as its name implies, is a beautiful wrasse … | |
Ehrongu boadhi | Apogon abrogramma | Apogon abrogramma is a common species in the Maldives belonging to the subgenus … | |
Dhidha funna | Nemateleotris magnifica | Nemateleotris magnifica, which is a popular aquarium fish, can be distinguished … | |
Falhu rondu | Sufflamen chrysopterus | The closely related species S. albicaudatus (Rüppell) has replaced Sufflamen chr… | |
Thun bibee | Forcipiger flavissimus | The Forcipiger flavissimus is closely related to F. longirostris, and these spec… | |
Dhon kandu uniya | Nemipterus furcosus | Nemipterus furcosus is not a commonly caught species in the Maldives, but it doe… | |
Muraka funna | Gobiodon citrinus | Gobiodon citrinus is one of the most commonly exported aquarium fish in the Mald… | |
Asdhaanu faana | Epinephelus spilotoceps | Epinephelus spilotoceps is very common in the Maldives, and its pale coloration … | |
Oimas, Fiyala dhari | Psenes cyanophrys | Several specimens of Psenes cyanophrys were caught in drifting gillnets by the R… | |
Raagondi | Auxis thazard | Auxis thazard is a major fishery in the Maldives, third in importance in terms o… | |
Bureki | Lepidozygus tapeinosoma | Lepidozygus tapeinosoma is used as bait in pole and line tuna fishery, with its … | |
Ilolhi boadhi | Pseudamia gelatinosa | Pseudamia gelatinosa may be common in the Maldives, but its cryptic habits make … | |
Loabodu bureki | Apogon savayensis | Apogon savayensis is one of a complex of three very similar species found in the… | |
Mudu faana | Epinephelus lanceolatus | Epinephelus lanceolatus is one of the two largest species of groupers in the wor… | |
Maa guruva | Plectorhinchus albovittatus | Plectorhinchus albovittatus is the largest species of this family and is not par… | |
Muda handhi | Caranx ignobilis | Caranx ignobilis is the largest of the trevallies or jacks, and although small s… | |
Mas muguraan | Pterocaesio chrysozona | Several species of fusiliers, including Pterocaesio chrysozona, are used as juve… | |
Ran faana | Cephalopholis aurantia | Cephalopholis aurantia is not encountered very often due to its deep-dwelling na… | |
Ran rongu londhimas | Grammistes sexlineatus | Grammistes sexlineatus, like other soapfishes, secretes copious quantities of mu… | |
Libaas handhi | Gnathodon speciosus | Fishermen occasionally catch Gnathodon speciosus using hand lines near reefs, an… | |
Thammas | Siganus lineatus | The Siganus lineatus appears to be particularly common in the south of the Maldi… | |
Ranrongu raiverimas | Neoniphon aurolineatus | Of the four species of Neoniphon found in the Maldives, Neoniphon aurolineatus i… | |
Londhi faana | Epinephelus tauvina | Epinephelus tauvina, despite its unappetizing English name, is a prime food fish… | |
Dhon noo hikaa | Halichoeres vrolikii | Halichoeres vrolikii, often referred to by its synonym H. hoevenii, is one of a … | |
Giulhu | Aprion virescens | The Aprion virescens is a free-swimming, carnivorous fish that is difficult to a… | |
Alhi dhanbaa | Chrysiptera glauca | Chrysiptera glauca is a very common and attractive fish found in shallow, modera… | |
Kandu uniya | Gymnocranius griseus | Gymnocranius griseus is characterized by a relatively deep body in both small ju… | |
Vahboa miyaru | Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos | Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos is one of the most common reef sharks in the Maldives… | |
Baigalhi funna | Amblygobius semicintus | Amblygobius semicinctus is very common in the sheltered lagoons of Maldivian isl… | |
Hithiboa | Atherinomorus lacunosus | Many tuna fishermen oppose the use of Atherinomorus lacunosus and other silversi… | |
Galu guruva | Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides | The juveniles of Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides appear to mimic a toxic nudibranc… | |
Hima boadhi | Rhabdamia cypselura | Rhabdamia cypselura is a frequently-used bait favoured by Maldivian tuna fisherm… | |
Lah faana | Epinephelus merra | Epinephelus merra is the most common grouper on protected shallow lagoon reefs, … | |
Thijjehi thaakihaa koli | Canthigaster janthinoptera | The closely related species Canthigaster janthinoptera, C. jactator (Jenkins) fr… | |
Ginimas | Lutjanus gibbus | Lutjanus gibbus is one of the most common Maldivian snappers, and during the day… | |
Maa hulhunbu landaa | Cheilinus undulatus | Despite its large size, Cheilinus undulatus, the largest of the family Labridae,… | |
Dhongu | Monotaxis grandoculis | Two distinct color forms of Monotaxis grandoculis have been observed, leading to… | |
Dhanbodu | Myripristis vittata | The small, brightly-colored Myripristis vittata is one of the more common soldie… | |
Hindhu dhidha mas | Heniochus pleurotaenia | Heniochus pleurotaenia is closely related to H. varius (Cuvier) of the Pacific, … | |
Kirulhiya bibee | Chaetodon mitratus | Chaetodon mitratus is one of the most beautiful butterflyfishes, and although it… | |
Dhegalhi murakamas | Dascyllus carneus | Dascyllus carneus is a very common species of coral reef found in the Maldives, … | |
Fanhaamas | Pterois miles | Pterois miles was identified as P. volitans (Linnaeus) in the Catalogue of Fishe… | |
Karaverimas | Rastrelliger kanagurta | Rastrelliger kanagurta appears to occur irregularly in the central and southern … | |
Madharaasee mas | Lutjanus madras | It appears that Lutjanus madras is rather rare in the Maldives, as evidenced by … | |
Hindhu kalhu rondu | Melichthys indicus | The Black Triggerfish, Melichthys indicus, can be easily distinguished from its … | |
Hindhukokaa bibee | Chaetodon decussatus | Chaetodon decussatus is not especially common in the Maldives, and it is very si… | |
Noomas hibaru | Makaira mazara | Makaira mazara has often been referred to as Makaira nigricans, but this name is… | |
Fangandu hibaru | Istiophorus platypterus | The Sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) is the most commonly seen of the billfish… | |
Thumba handhi | Carangoides orthogrammus | Carangoides orthogrammus has a nearly ubiquitous occurrence at oceanic islands a… | |
Dhon kaashi hikaa | Thalassoma jansenii | Thalassoma jansenii is not particularly common in the Maldives, unlike many othe… | |
Harufa funna | Xiphasia matsubarai | Xiphasia matsubarai is a very unusual blenny, which superficially resembles an e… | |
Guruva | Terapon jarbua | Juveniles and adults of Terapon jarbua are often found in freshwater, but accord… | |
Latti | Euthynnus affinis | Euthynnus affinis is commonly caught in the Maldives by trolling, unlike the oth… | |
Kashi neiy miyaru | Dalatias licha | Dalatias licha, a deepwater shark, appears to be rare in the Maldives; the set o… | |
Alanaasi bibee | Chaetodon kleinii | The Chaetodon kleinii, a small spotted butterflyfish recognizable by its dull or… | |
Alanaasi bibee | Chaetodon lunula | Chaetodon lunula is a popular aquarium fish that is fairly common in the Maldive… | |
Dhon lunboa hikaa | Halichoeres leucoxanthus | Halichoeres leucoxanthus, a popular aquarium fish like many other wrasses, is ve… | |
Raiy thiki faana | Cephalopholis leopardus | Cephalopholis leopardus is a common inhabitant of upper reef slopes, but due to … | |
Dhefah kaalhu | Acanthurus tennenti | Acanthurus tennenti is a fairly common shallow water surgeonfish whose sides can… | |
Rongudhemi venfunna | Istiblennius lineatus | Istiblennius lineatus is one of several relatively small blenny species that inh… | |
Fashuvi libaas | Acanthurus lineatus | Acanthurus lineatus is a very common inhabitant of shallow reef flats, and is po… | |
Rongu kendi hikaa | Anampses lineatus | In the Pacific Ocean, the closely related Anampses melanurus replaces Anampses l… | |
Kandu kalhuoh’ | Parupeneus macronemus | Parupeneus macronemus can be easily distinguished from other related species by … | |
Dhidhamas bibee | Heniochus acuminatus | Dead specimens of Heniochus acuminatus can be identified by counting the number … | |
Thundhigu bibee | Forcipiger longirostris | It can be difficult to tell Forcipiger longirostris from the related F. flavissi… | |
Thundhigu fathirondu | Oxymonacanthus longirostris | Oxymonacanthus longirostris can easily be distinguished from other Maldivian fil… | |
Thundhigu gaaboa | Oxycirrhites typus | Oxyirrhitus typus, a very popular aquarium fish, is easily distinguished from ot… | |
Fangadu tholhi | Alepisaurus ferox | Maldivian fishermen occasionally report sightings of Alepisaurus ferox, which th… | |
Kooru faana | Epinephelus longispinis | Epinephelus longispinis is easily identifiable due to its distinctive streaked s… | |
Nigoo dhigu kanneli | Thunnus tonggol | The Thunnus tonggol is a neritic species commonly found around the coasts of Ind… | |
Rimmas | Decapterus macarellus | There are approximately five to six species of Decapterus known from the Indian … | |
Madagaskara bibee | Chaetodon madagaskariensis | Chaetodon madagaskariensis is a popular aquarium fish that is very closely relat… | |
Dhivehi maagandumas | Amphiprion nigripes | The common Maldivian Anemonefish, Amphiprion nigripes, is much sought after by a… | |
Dhivehi venfunna | Ecsenius minutus | Ecsenius minutus is one of the few fishes known only from the Maldives, and as i… | |
Odidhoshumas | Lutjanus argentimaculatus | Lutjanus argentimaculatus is not a particularly common species in the Maldives, … | |
Galhi kendi venu bandeyri | Dunckerocampus multiannulatus | The fairly common Dunckerocampus multiannulatus, which is sometimes classified i… | |
Kashi kokaamas | Centropyge multispinis | Centropyge multispinis is a very common fish in Maldivian reefs, however, its da… | |
Maasku bibee | Heniochus monoceros | Heniochus monoceros is a fairly common species in the Maldives, often seen hover… | |
Boakuda faana | Gracila albomarginata | Gracila albomarginata is a moderately common reef fish that is rarely caught by … | |
Faiy mini hikaa | Paracheilinus mccoskeri | The male of Paracheilinus mccoskeri is renowned for its size and beauty, and is … | |
Oirongu bibee | Chaetodon meyeri | The Chaetodon meyeri butterflyfish, which is easily distinguishable by its uniqu… | |
Kalhu foniyamas | Macolor macularis | Both Macolor macularis and the closely related M. niger have distinctly patterne… | |
Nigoo dhigu hikaa | Thalassoma lunare | The widely-ranging and common species Thalassoma lunare is often bold enough to … | |
Dhidha mas | Zanclus cornutus | Zanclus cornutus is the only species in the family and is often favoured by aqua… | |
Footumas, Thelaapia | Oreochromis mossambicus | In 1964, the Japanese Research Vessel Fuji Maru brought Oreochromis mossambicus … | |
Dhon kothari filolhu | Wattsia mossambica | Wattsiamossambica is a rather deep-dwelling species, so it is not encountered ve… | |
Galhi kurumas | Scomberomorus commerson | Scomberomorus commerson is rare in the Maldives, with few specimens being landed… | |
Kurehi faana | Epinephelus miliaris | Epinephelus miliaris has a wide distributional range, but is known from relative… | |
Fee miyaru, Feeboa miyaru | Carcharhinus longimanus | Carcharhinus longimanus is a common oceanic shark that can be easily distinguish… | |
Oivaali rondu | Canthidermis maculatus | Unlike other triggerfishes, Canthidermis maculatus is most often encountered off… | |
Theyo mas | Ruvettus pretiosus | A specimen of Ruvettus pretiosus was taken by gillnet from the R. V. "Matha Hari… | |
Dhonkaru dhanbaa | Chrysiptera unimaculata | Chrysiptera unimaculata is sometimes confused with C. biocellata, but the former… | |
Filolhu | Lutjanus monostigma | Lutjanus monostigma is a moderately common species in the Maldives and is often … | |
Ran geri | Naso lituratus | Naso lituratus is one of the most beautiful Maldivian reef fishes, with its stri… | |
Dhaifuku rondu | Balistapus undulatus | The Balistapus undulatus is a common inhabitant of the Maldivian reefs and an in… | |
Kandu guruva | Plectorhinchus vittatus | Plectorhinchus vittatus is the most commonly seen Sweetlips in the Maldivian ree… | |
Bisburu bibee | Chaetodon trifasciatus | The Pacific population of Chaetodon trifasciatus, sometimes recognized as a dist… | |
Rongu dhanbaa | Stegastes fasciolatus | Stegastes fasciolatus is common throughout most of its range, but it is not well… | |
Kilanbu guruva | Diagramma pictum | Diagramma pictum can easily be distinguished from other sweetlips by its short f… | |
Dhon noo kaalhu | Paracanthurus hepatus | Paracanthurus hepatus is one of the most beautiful reef fishes, but it is not co… | |
Hunike | Pomacentrus pavo | Pomacentrus pavo is superficially similar in appearance to Chromis viridis, as s… | |
Mas faana | Cephalopholis argus | Cephalopholis argus is the most common and widespread species of the genus, and … | |
Saamaraa hikaa | Xyrichthys pavo | The Xyrichthys pavo lives on open sandy areas and dives into the sand when it se… | |
Haluvi venfunna | Entomacrodus striatus | Entomacrodus striatus is the most common and widely-spread species of its genus,… | |
Raagondi koli | Lagocephalus lagocephalus | Although Lagocephalus lagocephalus is not common in the Maldives, it is occasion… | |
Thikijehi boadhi | Fowleria punctulata | Isostigma (Jordan and Seale) is a synonym of Fowleria punctulata, which is very … | |
Raiykothari raiverimas | Sargocentron punctatissimum | The Sargocentron punctatissimum, like other squirrelfishes, is essentially noctu… | |
Dhon nigoo dhanbaa | Pomacentrus philippinus | In the Maldives and Sri Lanka, Pomacentrus philippinus has a distinctive yellow … | |
Gabulhi rondu | Rhinecanthus aculeatus | Rhinecanthus aculeatus is a very common inhabitant of Maldivian reefs, often see… | |
Kafihi mas | Naucrates ductor | Naucrates ductor has a semi-obligate commensal relationship with large sharks, r… | |
Berebedhi dhanbodu | Myripristis murdjan | Myripristis murdjan is a common species in the Maldives that can be distinguishe… | |
Berebedhi raiverimas | Sargocentron tiereoides | Sargocentron tiereoides is an uncommon species, and the first record of it from … | |
Aila | Coryphaena equiselis | Coryphaena equiselis is much rarer than C. hippurus, but they are so similar tha… | |
Kattelhi | Promethichthys prometheus | This record of Promethichthys prometheus is based on a series of photographs tak… | |
Maaniyaa mas | Elagatis bipinnulata | Elagatis bipinnulata is sometimes associated with schools of Skipjack tuna (Kats… | |
Thun raiy filolhu | Lethrinus conchyliatus | Lethrinus conchyliatus resembles the adult form of L. variegates in general appe… | |
Lah fathaa | Archamia fucata | Archamia fucata is sometimes used by Maldivian fishermen as bait, although it is… | |
Raiy onugandu tholhi | Fistularia petimba | A specimen of Fistularia petimba, which served as the basis for this report, was… | |
Ginimas faana | Aethaloperca rogaa | Aethaloperca rogaa is a moderately common fish that normally occurs singly along… | |
Raiy hulhunbu hikaa | Cirrhilabrus rubrisquamis | Cirrhilabrus rubrisquamis is likely to be fairly common in the Maldives, however… | |
Raiy thiki alathandu | Parapercis schauinslandi | Parapercis schauinslandi is a moderately deep-dwelling species whose color patte… | |
Raiy thiki hikaa | Pseudocoris yamashiroi | Pseudocoris yamashiroi is commonly found on the deeper parts of outer reef slope… | |
Venubandeyri | Corythoichthys haematopterus | Corythoichthys haematopterus is of little interest to aquarists, and was previou… | |
Dhon kothari fathirondu | Pervagor janthinosoma | Pervagor janthinosoma is closely related to P. alternans and P. aspricaudus; how… | |
Dhon faana | Epinephelus retouti | Epinephelus retouti is very similar in appearance to E. fasciatus, but can be di… | |
Vaalan rondu | Odonus niger | The Odunus niger, the most common Maldivian triggerfish, can often be seen swimm… | |
Gabulhi fattaa rondu | Rhinecanthus rectangulus | The Rhinecanthus rectangulus can be easily distinguished from the R. aculeatus b… | |
Kula kokaamas | Pygoplites diacanthus | The stunning coloration of Pygoplites diacanthus makes it a favorite among aquar… | |
Hima fathirondu | Pseudalutarius nasicornis | It appears that Pseudalutarius nasicornis is relatively rare in the Maldives, li… | |
Gaa furolhaa hikaa | Novaculichthys taeniourus | Novaculichthys taeniourus is a popular aquarium fish, well-known for its ability… | |
Dhon olhu faana | Plectropomus pessuliferus | Plectropomus pessuliferus has been characterized as an uncommon species, but it … | |
Lah kattelhi | Rexea prometheoides | R. V. Dr. Fridtjof Nansen caught specimens of Rexea prometheoides near the north… | |
Fashuvi rankaru mas | Aphareus rutilans | Of the two related species of Aphareus, the larger one appears to dwell deeper i… | |
Raiverimas | Sargocentron spiniferum | Sargocentron spiniferum is the largest of the squirrelfishes and is frequently t… | |
Asdhaanu bibee | Chaetodon falcula | The popular aquarium fish Chaetodon falcula is closely related to C. ulietensis … | |
Thaavalha | Hypoatherina temminckii | Hypoatherina temminckii is occasionally used as bait, and fishermen sometimes re… | |
Huifathu bohmas | Histrio histrio | Unlike other frogfishes, Histrio histrio is a pelagic species which can be found… | |
Kashikeyo mas | Pseudanthias squamipinnis | Pseudanthias squamipinnis is the most common species of the genus found on shall… | |
Kaaligandu miyaru | Sphyrna lewini | There are possibly three species of hammerhead sharks that occur in the Maldives… | |
Fulah hikaa | Cheilinus fasciatus | Cheilinus fasciatus is one of the most brightly-colored members of its genus, wh… | |
Kula bohmas | Antennarius coccineus | Although Antennarius coccineus is not rare, its camouflage and infrequent moveme… | |
Ali dhanbodu | Myripristis pralinia | The Myripristis pralinia can be best identified by its restricted shoulder bar, … | |
Dhidha bibee | Heniochus diphreutes | Heniochus diphreutes is one of the most common Maldivian butterflyfishes, and it… | |
Fankaa fathirondu | Aluterus scriptus | Aluterus scriptus is one of the largest filefishes, similar to A. monoceros; how… | |
Saiboani mas | Amphiprion sebae | Amphiprion sebae and Amphipron clarkii are similar in appearance, but the latter… | |
Baiburu kokaamas | Pomacanthus semicirculatus | Pomacanthus semicirculatus is rare in the Maldives, but a pair of them lived on … | |
Gui burandha | Abudefduf septemfasciatus | Abudefduf septemfasciatus is similar to A. sordidus, but lacks the black spot on… | |
Hiyani dhanbodu | Myripristis adusta | Myripristis adusta is the largest species of the genus, and its size and distinc… | |
Hohalha hikaa | Wetmorella nigropinnata | Wetmerella nigropinnata is rarely seen by divers due to its cryptic habits. W. p… | |
Thundhigu madu miyaru | Heptranchias perlo | A specimen of Heptranchias perlo weighing 4.2 kg was caught by bottom trawl in 2… | |
Woshimas miyaru | Isurus oxyrinchus | Isurus oxyrinchus is an extremely fast and powerful shark, as evidenced by its n… | |
Fahdhemi dhanbodu | Myripristis kuntee | Myripristis kuntee is apparently closely related to M. pralinia; however, it has… | |
Femunu miyaru | Negaprion acutidens | Negaprion acutidens is a species of shark in the family Carcharhinidae. It is al… | |
Lah kalhuoh’ | Parupeneus pleurostigma | Parupeneus pleurostigma is a fairly common goatfish in the Maldives, and the mal… | |
Oivaali miyaru, Ainu miyaru | Carcharhinus falciformis | Carcharhinus falciformis is one of the most common oceanic sharks in Maldivian w… | |
Asdhaanu raiverimas | Sargocentron caudimaculatum | Sargocentron caudimaculatum is one of the most common squirrelfishes in the Mald… | |
Rehi | Spratelloides gracilis | Spratelloides gracilis is one of the most widely used baits for pole and line tu… | |
Dhon bureki | Pseudanthias cooperi | Pseudanthias cooperi is often misidentified as Pseudanthias taeniatus Klunzinger… | |
Giulhu koli | Lagocephalus sceleratus | Lagocephalus sceleratus is one of the largest species of the family Lagocephalid… | |
Kattafulhi miyaru | Carcharhinus albimarginatus | Carcharhinus albimarginatus is said to be very aggressive, with individuals ofte… | |
Kaashi hikaa | Thalassoma hardwicke | Thalassoma schwanefeldii (Bleeker) is a synonym of Thalassoma hardwicke, which i… | |
Landaa faana | Cephalopholis sexmaculata | Cephalopholis sexmaculata is active nocturnally in shallow water and diurnally i… | |
Keyla | Polydactylus sexfilis | Polynemus sexfilis is a species commonly found in shallow sandy shores of the Ma… | |
Harongu hikaa | Pseudocheilinus hexataenia | Pseudocheilinus hexataenia is a shy and secretive species that tends to stay hid… | |
Kalhubilamas | Katsuwonus pelamis | Katsuwonus pelamis is the most commercially important species in the Maldives, a… | |
Dhalhu neiy thunbi | Naso hexacanthus | Males of Naso hexacanthus display a large pale blue area on the upper head and d… | |
Dhandi muguraan | Gymnocaesio gymnoptera | There is some debate as to whether Gymnocaesio gymnoptera, which is used as a li… | |
Boalhajehi faana | Anyperodon leucogrammicus | Juveniles of Anyperodon leucogrammicus mimic wrasses of the genus Halichoere, an… | |
Kandu kirulhiyamas | Pinjalo lewisi | Randall, Allen, and Anderson (1987) cleared up the confusion between Pinjalo lew… | |
Kandu kirulhiyamas | Pristipomoides auricilla | A research vessel named "Farumas" caught a total of four specimens of Pristipomo… | |
Janbu kandu uniya | Nemipterus | Nemipterus zysron appears to be rather uncommon in the Maldives, and has been pr… | |
Thun dhamaa hikaa | Epibulus insidiator | Epibulus insidiator is a common inhabitant of the Maldivian reefs, and it can be… | |
Hikandhi thun miyaru | Loxodon macrorhinus | The common Loxodon macrorhinus is of commercial importance in some areas, partic… | |
Goru vaali | Trachinotus baillonii | Trachinotus baillonii is commonly found in small groups in lagoons and shallow r… | |
Keyolhu rovvi | Aphareus furca | There are two species of Aphareus that occur in the Maldives, which can be easil… | |
Theyo miyaru, Meedhaa miyaru | Odontaspis ferox | Odontaspis ferox is sometimes caught by bottom-set gillnets laid down at the ree… | |
Dhaiythoonu funna | Meiacanthus smithi | Meiacanthus smithi was first discovered by scientists during Dr. Hans Hass' "Xar… | |
Maarehi | Amblygaster leiogaster | Amblygaster leiogaster is not a common species in the Maldives, as this is the f… | |
Dhaiy bulhi miyaru | Hemipristis elongatus | Hemipristis elongatus appears to be rare in the Maldives, with the only known re… | |
Ali tholhi | Gempylus serpens | A specimen of Gempylus serpens, which this report is based on, was caught by lon… | |
Raiy reendhoo mas | Lutjanus rufolineatus | The two specimens reported here are the only record of Lutjanus rufolineatus fro… | |
Filaa hikaa | Cheilinus oxycephalus | Divers and snorkelers often overlook Cheilinus oxycephalus due to its secretive … | |
Fijjehi faana | Epinephelus macrospilos | Specimens of Epinephelus macrospilos from the Western Indian Ocean differ from t… | |
Rindha vaali | Trachinotus blochii | Trachinotus blochii is not very common, but it can occasionally be caught by han… | |
Kirulhiya mas | Kyphosus cinerascens | Kyphosus cinerascens is similar in appearance to K. vaigiensis (Quoy and Gaimard… | |
Kalhihi | Lethrinus rubrioperculatus | It is surprising that Lethrinus rubrioperculatus, a common and widespread specie… | |
Raiythiki raiverimas | Neoniphon sammara | Neoniphon sammara is one of the most common squirrelfishes in the Indo-Pacific w… | |
Thalakalhu bibee | Chaetodon oxycephalus | The species Chaetodon oxycephalus is very similar to C. lineolatus, however, the… | |
Lah nigoo alathandu | Parapercis hexophthalma | Parapercis hexophthalma is a fairly common inhabitant of Maldivian reef flats, u… | |
Dhon miyaru | Carcharhinus sorrah | Carcharhinus sorrah is not seen very often in the Maldives, but individuals have… | |
Lahjehi bibee | Chaetodon guttatissimus | Chaetodon guttatissimus may be mistaken for C. citrinellus, however, the latter … | |
Thijjehi kaalhu | Ctenochaetus strigosus | Ctenochaetus strigosus is very similar to C. striatus, as seen on the previous p… | |
Thunbi | Naso brevirostris | Naso brevirostris is a common and distinctive member of the Maldivian reef fish … | |
Koveli hikaa | Anampses meleagrides | Anampses meleagrides is a beautiful species which is widespread on Maldivian ree… | |
Olhu faana | Plectropomus areolatus | Plectropomus areolatus can be distinguished from other species of Plectropomus f… | |
Thari rondu | Abalistes stellatus | The Abalistes stellatus is rarely seen in the Maldives, as it is a species that … | |
Hon’du miyaru | Mustelus manazo | Mustelus manazo is found on outer atoll slopes in depths of 100-200 m in the Mal… | |
Fala gaaboa | Cirrihitus pinnulatus | Cirrhitus pinnulatus, like other hawkfishes, is a lie-and-wait predator that per… | |
Rongu dhemi kaalhu | Ctenochaetus striatus | Ctenochaetus striatus is one of the most common reef fishes, but its dull colora… | |
Naaringu faana | Cephalopholis spiloparaea | Cephalopholis spiloparaea is perhaps the most common grouper in the Indo-Pacific… | |
Huifathu hikaa | Stethojulis strigiventer | The terminal males of Stethojulis strigiventer are more colourful and very diffe… | |
E-ahttehi | Plotosus lineatus | The sharp dorsal and pectoral spines of Plotosus lineatus are extremely venomous… | |
Faiga koshaa dhanbaa | Chrysiptera brownriggii | This species was previously known as Chrysiptera leucopoma, but it has since bee… | |
Thungadu hibaru, Kanneli hibaru | Xiphias gladius | Roughly 80% of the billfish caught during the offshore fishery survey conducted … | |
Nidhan miyaru | Nebrius ferrugineus | Four individuals of Nebrius ferrugineus, ranging in total length from 134-226 cm… | |
Dhon bibee | Chaetodon unimaculatus | The Pacific form of Chaetodon unimaculatus differs from the Indian Ocean form in… | |
Lonu lunboa | Chromis ternatensis | Chromis ternatensis is sometimes used as bait in Maldives for pole and line fish… | |
Kalhali thunboa hikaa | Hemigymnus melapterus | Hemigymnus melapterus, similar to H. fasciatus, feeds on invertebrates which it … | |
Nigoo hudhu kaalhu | Acanthurus thompsoni | The species Acanthurus thompsoni is commonly found in schools and is prevalent o… | |
Naruvaa bibee | Chaetodon auriga | Chaetodon auriga is one of the common butterflyfishes found in the Maldives, and… | |
Muraka mas | Dascyllus aruanus | Dascyllus aruanus and D. melanurus are sometimes confused, although D. melanurus… | |
Dhon kokaamas | Apolemichthys trimaculatus | The bright yellow Apolemichthys trimaculatus is fairly common in Maldivian reefs… | |
Kalhu murakamas | Dascyllus trimaculatus | The hardy species Dascyllus trimaculatus is very common in the Maldives, and des… | |
Kandi miyaru | Alopias vulpinus | The first record of Alopias vulpinus in Maldivian offshore waters was made by US… | |
Lah filolhu, Vilu filolhu | Lethrinus harak | The least wary species of the Lethrinus genus, the Harak, is a common emperor fo… | |
Femunu miyaru | Galeocerdo cuvier | Galeocerdo cuvier is one of the most dangerous sharks, known for attacking diver… | |
Maarondu | Balistoides viridescens | The Balistoides viridescens is fairly common in the Maldives, ranging from lagoo… | |
Veli faana | Cephalopholis sonnerati | Cephalopholis sonnerati is a deep-dwelling species that is rarely seen by divers… | |
Thineskan bibee | Chaetodon triangulum | Chaetodon triangulum is sometimes classified in the genus Gonochaetodon, differi… | |
Kandu faana, Huifathu mas | Lobotes surinamensis | Adults of Lobotes surinamensis, when seen offshore, may appear similar to groupe… | |
Hiki fulhangi | Exocoetus volitans | Exocoetus volitans is capable of leaping out of the water and gliding for long d… | |
Eh rongu hikaa | Labrichthys unilineatus | Labrichthys unilineatus is a small and dark-coloured species, making it easily o… | |
Huras galhi londhimas | Diploprion bifasciatum | Both Diploprion bifasciatum and the related Grammistes sexlineatus are relativel… | |
Bodu reendhoomas | Lutjanus biguttatus | Like most snappers, Lutjanus biguttatus is a nocturnal species that forms school… | |
Dhanbaa | Chrysiptera biocellata | Chrysiptera biocellata is sometimes confused with C. unimaculata, but they can b… | |
Raiymas | Lutjanus bohar | Lutjanus bohar is perhaps the most common large snapper in the Maldives, and is … | |
Dhelah hikaa | Bodianus bimaculatus | Bodianus bimaculatus, the smallest member of the genus, does not appear to be co… | |
Lah jehi kaalhu | Ctenochaetus binotatus | There are three species of Ctenochaetus found in the Maldives that are rather si… | |
Dhethiki hikaa | Cheilinus bimaculatus | Cheilinus bimaculatus appears to be fairly uncommon and is typically found dwell… | |
Ehkibadhon nilamehi | Chromis dimidiata | Chromis dimidiata is a common species in the Maldives, often seen in small, wide… | |
Kokaa bibee | Chaetodon vagabundus | While the Chaetodon vagabundus is by no means rare, it is not especially common … | |
Vailet dhanbodu | Myripristis violacea | The Myripristis violacea is easily identifiable due to its distinctive colourati… | |
Raiykirulhi raiverimas | Sargocentron violaceum | Sargocentron violaceum is not particularly prevalent in the Maldives, but it can… | |
Vaalan mas | Naso vlamingii | Naso vlamingii is a very common inhabitant of Maldivian reefs, and it feeds on z… | |
Kurumas | Acanthocybium solandri | Acanthocybium solandri is typically caught by trolling and a specialized fishing… | |
Veli funna | Gnatholepis anjerensis | Gnatholepis anjerensis is very common in the Maldives, but is easily overlooked … | |
Fehurihi | Rhincodon typus | The whale shark, Rhincodon typus, is the largest living fish and is not a danger… | |
Baafothi faana | Epinephelus multinotatus | In the Maldives, the Epinephelus multinotatus is rarely caught by local fisherme… | |
Kandu raiy haa | Variola albimarginata | Variola albimarginata is often misidentified as V. louti, but it can be easily d… | |
Hudhu attamas | Remorina albescens | The White Remora (Remorina albescens) is likely to be quite common in the Maldiv… | |
Hudhu lah faana | Epinephelus caeruleopunctatus | Epinephelus caeruleopunctatus is a common inhabitant of Maldivian coral reefs, a… | |
Lahjehi koli | Arothron hispidus | Arothron hispidus, like other pufferfishes, is highly poisonous, with the degree… | |
Kirulhi faana | Epinephelus ongus | Epinephelus ongus is a medium-sized grouper that appears to be relatively uncomm… | |
Nigoo hudhu kokaamas | Centropyge flavicauda | Centropyge flavicauda is one of the smallest angelfishes and is rarely seen in t… | |
Olhufathi miyaru | Triaenodon obesus | Trianodon obesus is one of the most common sharks in the Maldives, and is often … | |
Dhaagandu fathirondu | Cantherhines paradilis | Cantharidines paradilis is closely related to C. sandwichensis of Hawaii and C. … | |
Mathi dhon bureki | Pseudanthias evansi | Pseudanthias evansi is one of the most beautifully-colored anthiids and is a ver… | |
Dhon kothari hikaa | Labropsis xanthonota | Labropsis xanthonota, like other wrasses, is among the first to retire to an ina… | |
Gonu | Ostracion cubicus | The boxfish Ostracion cubicus, previously recorded as O. tuberculatus Linnaeus i… | |
Kandu haa | Variola louti | Divers and snorkelers commonly see Variola louti along the reef slope, which app… | |
Mahi muguraan | Caesio xanthonota | Previously, the fusiliers of the species Caesio xanthonota were recognised as a … | |
Vilu kaalhu | Acanthurus xanthopterus | Acanthurus xanthopterus is perhaps the largest of the surgeonfishes, occurring i… | |
Reendhoo uraha kanneli | Thunnus albacares | Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) is the second most important species in the M… | |
Boareendhoo bibee | Chaetodon xanthocephalus | The uncommon Chaetodon xanthocephalus can be found in Maldivian reefs and, once … | |
Vilu rondu | Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus | Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus is one of two large triggerfishes commonly seen b… | |
Dhon thiki handhi | Carangoides fulvoguttatus | Carangoides fulvoguttatus is often observed patrolling the edges of reefs in its… | |
Dhon fattaa kandu uniya | Scolopsis auratus | Previously, most authors referred to Scolopsis auratus as S. personatus. Members… | |
Nigoodhon noomas | Paracaesio xanthurus | The Paracaesio xanthurus appears to be uncommon in the Maldives, and its distinc… | |
Kanfaiykuda fanhaamas | Dendrochirus zebra | The genus Dendrochirus differs from Pterois by having the pectoral rays connecte… | |
Faana miyaru | Stegostoma fasciatum | Stegostoma fasciatum is not a very common shark in the Maldives, but it is occas… | |
Dhon hikaa | Halichoeres scapularis | The common wrasse Halichoeres scapularis is more often encountered on sand and r… |