How to Identify Striped Sweetlip

To identify Striped Sweetlip (Plectorhinchus lessonii), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Juveniles: Bold black and white or black and yellow longitudinal stripes, often with a prominent black spot (ocellus) on the caudal peduncle or dorsal fin base. Adults: Numerous thin, dark brown or black longitudinal stripes on a silvery-white to yellowish-brown background. Fins are typically yellowish, sometimes with dark spots or stripes. The lips are thick and fleshy, characteristic of the genus.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Thick, fleshy lips, Distinctive stripe patterns that change with age, Relatively small eyes, Deep body, laterally compressed

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12-14 spines and 17-20 soft rays. The spinous portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Moderately long and rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 7-8 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Juvenile Pattern

   Look for bold, contrasting black and white/yellow stripes, often with a large black spot near the tail. Juveniles may swim with an undulating motion to mimic flatworms.

2. 2

   Adult Pattern

   Observe the numerous, thin, dark longitudinal stripes on a lighter body. The thick, fleshy lips are a key generic characteristic.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Note the deep, compressed body shape, typical of sweetlips.

Explore Striped Sweetlip