Plectrypops lima
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Plectrypops lima, also known as the shy soldier, is a species of soldierfish in the family Holocentridae (4). It is widely found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa to Hawaii and parts of the eastern Pacific Ocean (1, 2). This species is associated with coral reef ecosystems and is considered uncommon but is found on many reefs (5). It hides in crevices and caves during the day and comes out at night to feed (3). Its diet mainly includes small shrimp, crabs, krill, larvae, and small fishes (5). These traits help it survive in low-light reef environments (5).
| Plectrypops lima | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Beryciformes |
| Family: | Holocentridae |
| Genus: | Plectrypops |
| Species: | P. lima |
| Binomial name | |
| Plectrypops lima (Valenciennes, 1831) | |
| Synonyms | |
|
Myripistis lima Valenciennes, 1831 | |
Plectrypops lima has a slightly elongated body that is compressed from side to side, which is common among soldierfish species (5). It can grow up to about 10 inches in length but is usually around 6 inches long (5). Its body is bright red, which helps it blend into coral reefs, especially in low lighting (3). One of its most noticeable features is its large eyes, which help it see in low-light conditions (5). The dorsal fin has sharp spines that help protect the fish from predators (5). The species also has rough textured scales, which explains its other common name, the roughscale soldierfish (4). These physical features help it survive in reef habitats (5).
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