Stephanolepis diaspros

Size range: 7-15 cm (max. 20 cm)

Common size: n/a

Depth range: 0-50 m

Habitat:

• Hard - algae-covered rocky, habitats
• Vegetation - sea grass meadows
• Soft - sand, mud; mostly juvenile schools

Water column position: Supra-benthic

Schooling characteristics: Adults live in small groups. Young fish form schools.

Colors & patterns: Diamond shaped body covered with rough shaygreen-like elongate scales. A single spine in first dorsal fin. No pelvic fin.

Behavior:

1. Reef associated,

2. Activity: Diurnal

3. Approach: n/a

4. Unique behavior: n/a

5. Feeds on small rock dwelling organisms that are plucked among the algae.

Native/Exotic: Exotic; originated from Red sea. One of the earlier Lessepsian immigrants actually well established in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea.