GOBIIDAE


Asterropteryx semipunctata, 3.0 cm SL
(photo by Ukkrit Satapoomin)


Asterropteryx semipunctata
Rüppell, 1830
Starry Goby

D VI+I, 10; A I, 9; P1 16-17; LR 23-25; PDS 7-8.

Body relatively short, compressed. Head compressed; 2-10 spinous projections at posterior margin of preopercle; gill opening not extending anteriorly to a vertical through posterior margin of preopercle; tongue rounded or near truncate. Third spine of first dorsal fin elongate and filamentous; pelvic fins almost separated; frenum absent. Scales on body ctenoid, exclusive of pectoral-fin base and breast with cycloid scales; anterior part of cheek and branchiostegal membrane with cycloid scales, whereas posterior part of cheek and operculum with ctenoid scales. Sensory canals and pores present on head; distinct transverse pattern of sensory-papillae rows on cheek; a pair of short longitudinal rows of sensory papillae just behind chin. Color: head and body grayish with numerous bright blue dots; ca. 4 irregular rows of small dusky blotches on body. Size: 4.0 cm SL. Distribution: Indo-Pacific. Remarks: found around rubbles on shallow protected bays, coral reefs, lagoons and tidal estuaries.