East-Australian Stripey

Microcanthus joyceae

Microcanthus joyceae, commonly known as the East-Australian Stripey, is a small reef-associated fish found in the subtropical waters of the Western Pacific. It inhabits the eastern coast of Australia, from southern Queensland to New South Wales, as well as areas like New Caledonia, Lord Howe Island, and Norfolk Island. This species is typically seen at shallow depths ranging from 1 to 5 meters, often in rock pools and rocky shores when young, and near rocky reefs, harbors, embankments, and under piers as adults. The East-Australian Stripey can reach a maximum length of 11.2 cm and is characterized by its distinctive body stripes, with the fifth stripe being relatively straight and lacking any inflection. Unlike some similar species, it does not have spots or short dashes on its breast and lower body. The fish has a compressed body shape, with 11 dorsal spines, 15 to 17 dorsal soft rays, 3 anal spines, and 13 to 14 anal soft rays. Its conservation status has not been evaluated by the IUCN, and it poses no threat to humans.