Banded Tail Coral Cod

Characterized by red color grading to dark brown on posterior part of the body; posterior edge of operculum with prominent brown "ear" spot; body scales ctenoid, including abdomen; greatest depth of body 2.7-3.1 in SL; rounded caudal fin; pelvic fins 1.8-2.2 in head length (Ref. 90102); interorbital area convex; rounded preopercle, finely serrate, lower edge fleshy; subopercle and interopercle usually smooth; maxilla reaching well past eye (Ref. 089707).

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

Common throughout its range, the species inhabits coral-rich areas. It feeds on small fishes and crustaceans (Ref. 89707). Solitary (Ref 90102).