Stripey Microcanthus strigatus

The Stripey, the only fish in its genus, is native to the western Pacific Ocean with two distinct populations: the northern from Japan/Taiwan to Hawaii (Nagasaki fish) and the southern from Australia to New Caledonia (Australian Stripey). In 2020, it was suggested that these be split into two separate species, the latter becoming M. joyceae. They are related to seachubs.

The laterally compressed fish covered in black stripes bordered with thin yellow lines on a white background. The belly can be yellow or white. The fish can grow to 16cm long.

They swim in schools around reefs and structures.