Melichthys niger is very similar in appearance to M. indicus, which was mentioned on the previous page, and is more widely distributed; however, it is easily confused with M. indicus.
Details
§ 01
size
Max. 35 cm
color
Dark blue-green to black. Blue-white lines at base of soft dorsal and anal fins. Submarginal blue line on caudal fin bends into lobes.
This species is found on the uppermost part of the outer edges of coral reefs, where it primarily feeds on calcareous algae. Additionally, it also consumes zooplankton.
distinctive characters
The dorsal fin has three spines and 32-35 rays, the anal fin has 28-31 rays, the pectoral fin has 15-17 rays, and there are prominent longitudinal ridges following the scale rows on the caudal peduncle. The caudal fin is emarginate to lunate, except in juveniles.