Bodianus bimaculatus, the smallest member of the genus, does not appear to be common in the Maldives, likely due to its deep-dwelling nature.
Details
§ 01
size
Max. 10 cm
color
Yellow to orange with six narrow red stripes shading to yellow on lower third of head and body. A large yellow edged black spot on opercle and a black spot about the size of pupil on caudal fin base slightly above the end of lateral line.
Typically inhabiting deep outer reef slopes at depths of more than 40 m, this species feeds on benthic invertebrates.
distinctive characters
The dorsal fin has 12 spines and 9-10 rays, the anal fin has 3 spines and 12 rays, the pectoral fin has 14-16 rays, and the body depth is 3.6-4.0 in standard length, with a rounded caudal fin.