Marine Life

Crimson jobfish

Jambu giulhu

Pristipomoides filamentosus

Until recently, Pristipomoides filamentosus was thought to be rare in the Maldives due to its deep-dwelling habits. However, in the last couple of years, fishermen have started deep handlining outside the atolls, resulting in this species and other deep-living fishes appearing fairly regularly in the Malé fish market. The two specimens on which this report is based were caught by longline at depths of 150 to 200 m outside K. Makunudhoo.

Details

§ 01

size: Common to 50 cm; max. 80 cm
color: Sides and back red-brown with blue flecks (silvery when first caught). Margins of dorsal and caudal fins distinctive rusty orange.
order: Perciformes
family: Lutjanidae
image url: https://assets.explore.mv/fishes/pristipomoides-filamentosus.png
habitat and biology: This species inhabits rocky substrates at depths ranging from 90 to 360 m, and migrates to shallower depths during the night to feed on small fish and crustaceans.
distinctive characters: This fish has a dorsal fin with 10 spines and 12 rays, an anal fin with 3 spines and 8 rays, and a pectoral fin with 15 or 16 rays. Its body is elongate and robust, with a depth of 3.3-3.8 in standard length, a broad interorbital space, and a lower jaw that protrudes slightly. Additionally, its pectoral fins are long, reaching the level of the anus.