Candycane Dwarfgoby

Trimma cana is a species of goby native to the western Pacific Ocean where it can be found from the Philippines to Palau. It inhabits steep slopes on the outer side of reefs, preferring a hard coral substrate, at depths of from 12 to 35 metres (39 to 115 ft). This species can reach a length of 2.5 centimetres (0.98 in) SL.

Other names: Candy Cane Pygmy-goby.

Description

It has white background with 8 distinct vertical bars on head and body. It has yellow spots on the medial fins. A well-defined dark red bar is across the postorbital region of the skull (may be partially obscured by the overlying anterior extension of the epaxialis body musculature in larger specimens). No scales on head, opercle, cheek or nape. A second dorsal spine varying from slightly to very elongate (as far as the mid-peduncle). A well-developed interorbital trench. A variably-developed postorbital trench (usually developed). A fifth pelvic fin ray which is unbranched and 50-85% of the fourth. Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-10; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 8 - 10.

Distribution

Western Pacific: Philippines, Caroline Is., Fiji, Marshall Islands and Palau.

Habitat

It is solitary or in small groups on surface of hard corals. Inhabits steep outer reef slopes in 12-35 m.