Nuchequula nuchalis (Temminck & Schlegel, 1845)
Spotnape ponyfish
Nuchequula nuchalis
photo by Shao, K.T.

Family:  Leiognathidae (Slimys, slipmouths, or ponyfishes), subfamily: Gazzinae
Max. size:  25 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  pelagic-neritic; brackish; marine
Distribution:  Northwest Pacific: southern Japan, Taiwan and from Fujian south to the Gulf of Tong King. Questionably from the Western Central Pacific (Ref. 47581).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 8-8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 16-16; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 14-14. Deep-bodied, dark blotch on nape with highly reflective silvery areas next to it (Ref. 48635).
Biology:  Found in shallow coastal and brackish waters (Ref. 41299, 48635). Aggregates in schools. Utilized as a food fish (Ref. 637). Commonly caught by anglers (Ref. 637). Produces sound (Ref. 9137).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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