Cephalopholis urodeta (Forster 1801)

This species is distinguished by the following characteristics: greatest body depth 2.7-3.1 in standard length; body scales ctenoid except cycloid scales ventrally on abdomen; rounded caudal fin; pelvic fins usually not reaching the anus, 1.8-2.2 in head length Colour of body reddish brown anteriorly, dark brown posteriorly; caudal fin with 2 white to bluish white bands that converge posteriorly (Ref. 90102).

Protogyny is unconfirmed for this species (Ref. 103751).

Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14 - 16; Analspines: 3; Analsoft rays: 8 - 9

Inhabits clear, shallow waters of outer reef areas. Also found in lagoons, back-reef areas, and on the reef-top. Feeds on small fishes (68%) and crustaceans (Ref. 5222).

Adults inhabit clear, shallow waters of outer reef areas, in lagoons, back-reef areas, and on the reef-top. As solitary individuals (Ref. 90102), they prefer healthy coral reef in shallow areas, and are therefore greatly affected by reef degradation (Ref. 89707). They feed on small fishes (68%) and crustaceans. Because of its small size, the darkfin hind is not of much interest as a food fish (except perhaps to subsistence fisheries), but it does well in an aquarium and may find a market as an aquarium fish. They are caught with hook-and-line, gill nets, and in traps (Ref. 39231).

fisheries: subsistence fisheries; aquarium: potential