Xyrichtys novacula

Maximum size: 30 cm

Size range: 10 - 20 cm

Habitat:

• Soft - sand, usually in the vicinity of sea-grass

Water column position:

• Benthic
• Supra-benthic

Colors & patterns:

Pale greenish or pink, usually with no conspicuous markings on body ; Head with alternating vertical lines of light blue and light yellow-orange

An elongate, very compressed fish with front of head forming a sharp edge. Snout very blunt; profile steep

Females or juveniles are pink; males greenish with slender blue vertical lines on the body, larger than females

Behavior:

• Cryptic

2. Activity: ?

• Diurnal
• Nocturnal
• Both

3. Approach:

• Shy - dives head first into the sand when frightened

Schooling characteristics:

• Solitary
• Small groups

Native

EM notes: description of special east Mediterranean characteristics.