Comet
📖 Overview
Adults are found near reefs, and in caves and crevices along drop-offs . A nocturnal species that hides under ledges and in holes by day . They possess a false eye which is actually the dorsal fin ocellus confuses predators because it poses an inverted image of a fish. When alarmed, this fish will poke it's head into a hole and expose its tail end which mimics the head of the moray eel . Eggs are guarded by the male parent . Have been reared in captivity . Reported to be living in a marine aquarium for 8 years and 6 months (Danilo Ronchi, Italy, pers.comm. 2014 February). Maximum depth reported taken from Ref. 128797.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8 - 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. Characterized by having tubed lateral-line scales 19-20+9-10; depth of body 2.5-2.7 in SL; dorsal and anal fins elevated posteriorly; rounded caudal fin. The false eye which is actually the dorsal fin ocellus confuses predators because it poses an inverted image of a fish. When alarmed, this fish will poke its head into a hole and expose its tail end which mimics the head of the moray eel . Head and body brownish black with small pale blue spots; vertical and pelvic fins dark orange-brown, with many small blue spots; blue ringed black ocellus above base of last 3 dorsal rays; yellow spots at base of upper caudal rays; pectoral rays bright yellow, fin membrane transparent .: short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Comet is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Comet is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Eggs are guarded by the male parent .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 3 - 110 m , usually 3 - 45 m . Tropical; 32°N - 24°S East Africa to Tonga and the Line Islands.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Comet is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked — Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.8 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 128 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Comet has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrosia barrosi | Smith | 1952 | Synonym |
| Callopresiops altivelis | Steindachner | 1903 | Synonym |
| Plesiops altivelis | Steindachner | 1903 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) — 2 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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