Four-eye pygmygoby

Appearance

Max. length: 2.3 cm. Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8-9; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 7 - 8. This species is characterized by the following: dorsal spine a little elongated or not; presence of a basal membrane between the pelvic fins; absence of predorsal scales; an interorbital but no postorbital trench; absence of cheek and opercular scales; fifth pelvic fin ray branched sequentially once or twice and, uniquely among known species of Trimma, has a bilateral, pupil-sized black spot on the branchiostegal membrane; live individuals with red spots, a little smaller than the pupil diameter on the head and nape, the posterior half of body has 3 yellow stripes separated by 2 grey stripes, and the black spots on the branchiostegal membranes are ocellated with white or blue.

Distribution

Western Pacific: Japan to the Solomons.

Habitat

Lives under corals in embayments, which are sometimes covered by siltation. Also found in caves and crevices of sheltered reefs. It often positions itself upside-down on the roof of the recess.