Masked Moki

Goniistius francisi

The Masked Moki is a reef fish belonging to the family Cheilodactylidae, found in the subtropical waters of the Pacific. It is primarily distributed around Lord Howe Island, Lord Howe Rise, Middleton Reef, and the Kermadec Islands. This species is often confused with C. vittatus due to its similar appearance, but distinct features such as prominent bony knobs on the anterior maxilla and prefrontal help in identification. The Masked Moki is characterized by dark diagonal bands across its body and a black-tipped upper lobe of the caudal fin. Living in depths ranging from 6 to 88 meters, the Masked Moki inhabits both coral and rocky reefs. It is a demersal species, meaning it typically stays close to the sea floor. Divers are likely to encounter this fish in the shallower parts of its range, as 60% of recorded sightings occur at depths less than 40 meters. Its conservation status has not been evaluated by the IUCN, leaving its population trends and potential threats largely unknown.