Marine Life

Blackflag sandperch

Kalhu kothari alathandu

Parapercis signata

Divers rarely encounter Parapercis signata due to its deep-dwelling habits, and many species of Parapercis exhibit sexual dimorphism in terms of coloration. In older literature, the sandperches were classified under either the family Parapercidae or Mugiloididae.

Details

§ 01

size: Max. 13 cm
color: Spinous portion black with a deep red margin. A series of 8 short dusky bars on back, six of which are linked to black spots basically in soft dorsal fin. A series of 9 broad orange bars on lower side.
order: Perciformes
family: Pinguipedidae
image url: https://assets.explore.mv/fishes/parapercis-signata.png
habitat and biology: This species is typically found on the lower parts of coral reefs and in sandy areas at depths ranging from 30 to 35 meters. It feeds on small shrimp and fish.
distinctive characters: The dorsal fin has five spines and 21 rays, the anal fin has one spine and 14 to 22 rays, and the pelvic fins are well separated.