Malthopsis retifera Ho, Prokofiev & Shao, 2009
Reticulate triangular batfish
Malthopsis retifera
photo by Ho, H.-C.

Family:  Ogcocephalidae (Batfishes)
Max. size:  6.03 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  bathydemersal; marine; depth range 375 - 420 m
Distribution:  Northeastern Indian Ocean: off Somalia, Socotra.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal soft rays (total): 4-5. This species differs from its congeners in having a reticulate color pattern on dorsal surface of disk, 5 pairs of dark spots on disk margin and lateral sides of tail; rostrum is directed to front; bucklers on dorsal surface are relatively pointed, absence of small tubercles or bucklers between principal bucklers; rounded and flat bucklers on belly; anal fin reaching caudal fin base when laid back; 6 lateral line scales in subopercular series and 7 or 8 in tail series; 11-13 (usually 12) pectoral fin rays and 4 or 5 (usually 5) dorsal fin rays (Ref. 80924).
Biology: 
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 13 August 2019 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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