Pervagor alternans (Ogilby 1899)

A strong first dorsal spine armed with 2 rows of prominent, laterally-directed barbs. Posterior margin of ventral flap not attached to large and barbed pelvic rudiment. Distinguished by a bright yellow ring around the eye (Ref. 1602). Head and body blackish brown to pale, pinkish brown; blackish band usually encircling the snout; eyes and surrounding area bright yellow. Caudal fin generally orange; soft dorsal and anal fins spotted, clear or yellowish orange basally; pectoral fins clear, base blackish brown. Scales on posterior half of body with spinules, number increasing with age; adult male with scale rugosities

Dorsal spines (total): 1 - 2; Dorsal soft rays (total): 31 - 34; Analspines: 0; Analsoft rays: 27 - 31; Vertebrae: 19

Inhabits coral and rocky reefs.

Uncommon species that occurs in coral and rocky reefs to a depth of about 15 m (Ref. 9710).