Lutjanus monostigma is a moderately common species in the Maldives and is often referred to as "Filolhu" by Maldivian fishermen, although this name is more accurately used for the Emperors of the Lethrinidae family.
Details
§ 01
size
Common to 50 cm; max. 60 cm
color
Yellowish. A black spot, rather diffuse, on the lateral line below the junction of spinous and the soft dorsal fin. Fins yellow.
This species is typically found in coral reef habitats, often near caves for shelter, from depths of 5-30 m. Its diet consists mainly of fish and benthic crustaceans, and it tends to form small schools.
distinctive characters
This fish has a dorsal fin with 10 spines and usually 13 (rarely 14) rays, an anal fin with 3 spines and 8 or 9 rays, and a pectoral fin with 15-17 rays. It has a moderately elongate body with a depth of 2.6-3.0 in standard length, and its tongue has a patch of fine granular teeth, although this is sometimes absent in juveniles. Additionally, the upper scale rows ascend obliquely and the caudal fin is truncate to emarginate.