Harlequin Sweetlips (juvenile)

Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides is a species of grunt native to the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. It is a denizen of coral reefs found at depths of from 1 to 30 m (3.3 to 98.4 ft). It can reach 72 cm (28 in) in TL. The heaviest known individual weighed 7 kg (15 lb). This species is of minor importance to local commercial fisheries and can be found in the aquarium trade.

Description

Adults covered in brown spots with a whitish belly, while the juveniles are easily recognised by their large white spots on a brown background. Juveniles mimic the movement of a poisonous flatworm for defence against predators. They gain more spots and the spots reverse from white to black as they age. Immature fish have a combination of large white spots and smaller dark spots.

Distribution

Indo-West Pacific: Maldives and Cocos Islands; Sumatra to Fiji and New Caledonia, north to Ryukyu Islands, south to Rowley Shoals.

Habitat

Inhabits coral-rich areas of clear lagoon and seaward reefs. Adults are solitary, near and under ledges or caves by day. Juveniles are found among corals. Feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, and fishes at night. Juveniles are used in the aquarium industry. Small juveniles may mimic a toxic flatworm. Marketed fresh, a small quantity is salted. Large fish have coarse and dry flesh.