Myripristis melanosticta is a moderately deep-dwelling species, and is the second largest member of its genus after M. adusta.
Details
§ 01
size
Common to 24 cm; max. 30 cm
color
Body pale pink. Dark red bar across opercular edge. Red pigment on anterior part of head giving dark-faced appearance. Soft dorsal, anal and caudal fins red, with white leading edges and black blotches at tips. Outer part of spiny dorsal red.
This species is typically found in depths ranging from moderate to deep, usually greater than 25 meters. During the day, they are seen taking refuge in the protection of reefs, while at night they are seen swimming over open ocean floors.
distinctive characters
The dorsal fin has 10 spines, followed by one spine and 13-15 rays; the anal fin has four spines and 11-12 (usually 12) rays; the pectoral fin has 14-15 rays; the body depth is 2.1-2.5 in standard length; the total gill rakers are 32-38; the body is oblong; the corner of the preopercle does not have a sharp spine; and there are two pairs of tooth patches, one above the other, at the symphysis of the lower jaw outside the gape.