Stiphodon oatea Keith, Feunteun & Vigneux, 2010

Family:  Gobiidae (Gobies), subfamily: Sicydiinae
Max. size:  2.82 cm SL (male/unsexed); 4.02 cm SL (female)
Environment:  demersal; freshwater, amphidromous
Distribution:  Pacific Ocean: French Polynesia, Marquesas.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 10. A combination of characters distinguishes Stiphodon oatea. The species has 14 pectoral rays, 9 segmented-rays in the second dorsal fin and 40-49 premaxillary teeth. There are 12-17 scales in predorsal midline and 33-39 in longitudinal series. The males have more and larger symphyseal teeth than females (3 vs. 2-3). The species has also (13-16) scales in transverse forward series and longer fins in males. The species is squatter than other Stiphodon species and the coloration of males is characteristic: they have yellow green (Ref. 83881).
Biology:  Occurs in clear and calm streams with sandy or slightly rocky bottom and large pools. Lives on the bottom of the river. Also observed from sea level to 40 meters high in altitude. Possibly spawns in freshwater, with free embryos drifting downstream to the sea where they undergo a planktonic stage, before returning to the rivers to grow and reproduce, hence are amphidromous (Ref. 83881).
IUCN Red List Status: Near Threatened (NT); Date assessed: 15 September 2011 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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