About Ruanoho whero Hardy, 1986
The spectacled triplefin, scientifically named Ruanoho whero, is a species of triplefin in the genus Ruanoho. It is commonly found around New Zealand, occurring at depths from a few metres to around 30 metres, and is most abundant in reef areas made up of broken rock. Adult individuals reach a total length between 4 and 8 centimetres. This fish has a flattened head with large eyes that are each surrounded by a dark band, which is the origin of its common name. Fine blue lines pattern the head and fins of the fish. It spends most of its time resting on the seabed, and uses its large pectoral fins as props to support itself while resting. During the breeding season, which falls in winter and spring, males of this species become darker: they develop a blue-black head, a black first dorsal fin, and dark bars across their body. The specific epithet "whero" is a Māori word that translates to "red", and refers to the diagonal reddish striping present on the fish's body.
