harlequin sandsmelt
A species of sandperch (Parapercis pulchella) found in Japanese waters. The name is usually written in katakana.
Harlequin sandsmelts are often seen on sandy seabeds.
The angler caught a harlequin sandsmelt.
Katakana spelling is standard for this fish name.
Kanji form is rare; the word is usually written in kana.
The name トラギス (虎鱚) combines 虎 (tora, 'tiger') and 鱚 (kisu, 'sillago'), referring to its striped pattern and its resemblance to sillago fish. The exact origin is uncertain.