Sebastapistes mauritiana (Cuvier 1829)

Underside of head with weak dark bars; spinous dorsal normally with dark spot (Ref. 4313). Strong coronal ridges with spine; distinct occipital pit, deepening with age (Ref. 37816).Description: Characterized by red to greenish brown color with white blotches; ctenoid scales; presence of palatine teeth; slightly depressed interorbital space; two spines extending ventrally over upper lip in lacrimal; prominent head pores; depth of body about 2.8 in SL (Ref. 90102).

Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Analspines: 3; Analsoft rays: 5

Inhabits outer intertidal reef flats and shallow lagoon reefs exposed to wave action. Solitary and cryptic (Ref 90102).