Plagiotremus tapeinosoma (Bleeker 1857)

About 20 oblong segments form the dark midlateral body stripe (Ref. 4404).

Oviparous, distinct pairing (Ref. 205).

Dorsal spines (total): 7 - 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 34 - 39; Analspines: 2; Analsoft rays: 28 - 33

Adults inhabit clear lagoon and seaward reefs (Ref. 9710), usually the lower surge zone to deeper areas. They hide in deserted worm tubes when alarmed (Ref. 1602). They feed by attacking other fishes and removing dermal tissue, mucus and sometimes scales; occasionally makes harmless 'attacks' on divers (Ref. 2334, 48636). Some individuals usually strike from behind and quickly dive in the reef for cover to avoid punishment (Ref. 48636). Their wriggling swimming mode possibly mimics other non-scale eating species. Oviparous. Eggs are demersal and adhesive (Ref. 205), and are attached to the substrate via a filamentous, adhesive pad or pedestal (Ref. 94114). Larvae are planktonic, often found in shallow, coastal waters (Ref. 94114). Minimum depth of 1 m reported from Ref. 90102.

aquarium: commercial