Plectorhinchus albovittatus is the largest species of this family and is not particularly common in the Maldives, with few records of its occurrence. P. obscurum (Gunther) and P. harrawayi (Smith) are synonyms of this species.
Details
§ 01
size
Max. 1 m
color
Adults light grey with numerous pale spots and short irregular lines. Usually a broad diffused pale bar just behind pectoral fins, extending onto abdomen. Soft portion of dorsal fin and lobes of caudal fin with large black areas. Anal, pelvic and pectoral fin black or partially black.
This species is commonly observed in shallow waters over coral reefs and rubble slopes, ranging from 8 to 50 meters deep. It is usually found in loose groups.
distinctive characters
This fish has a dorsal fin with 13 spines and 18-19 rays, an anal fin with 3 spines and 7 rays, a pectoral fin with 17 rays, greatly enlarged lips, and a slightly emarginate caudal fin.