Synodus jaculum Russell & Cressey, 1979
Lighthouse lizardfish
photo by Patzner, R.

Family:  Synodontidae (Lizardfishes), subfamily: Synodontinae
Max. size:  20 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 2 - 100 m
Distribution:  Indo-Pacific: East Africa to the Line, Marquesan, and Society islands, north to the Izu Islands (Japan), south to New South Wales (Australia); Palau to Kosrae in Micronesia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-13; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 8-10. Body brownish above, with dark brown saddle blotches; fins transparent, with faint brown spots on dorsal and caudal rays (Ref. 11228). Prominent black blotch on its caudal peduncle (Ref. 1602). Description: Characterized by snout with dendritic black spot on top; very short flap on anterior nostril (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Inhabits coral reefs. Commonly found on sand or rubble near coral heads. Feeds on shrimps and small fishes (Ref. 89972). Frequently caught with S. variegatus and S. englemani, using artisanal gear and trawls. Sold fresh and dried salted in markets. Solitary,in pairs or in small groups (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 02 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless
Country info:   
 


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