Stalix versluysi (Weber, 1913)
Versluys' jawfish
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Opistognathidae (Jawfishes)
Max. size:  3.8 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 15 - 45 m
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 11-11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-11; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 11-11. Description: Characterized by brown marbling on head and body; dorsal fin with black spot between spines 4-7 followed smaller white marks; back yellowish grading to white on sides and ventral surface; dense covering of dark brown spots/mottling; few dark brown spots on side of jaws; first 6-7 dorsal spines forked distally and skin covering spinous dorsal fin forming broad dorsal hood to cover forked portion of spines; oblique scale rows about 41; relatively small eye, 9.0-10.1 % SL; depth of body 5.1-6.3 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Found in silt and sand bottoms in 15-45 m (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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