Common Name
Saint Paul's Gregory
Year Described
Lubbock & Edwards, 1981
Other Notes
Genetic evidence has demonstrated that the populations of Stegastes rocasensis and S. sanctipauli are almost genetically identical despite the differences observed in color pattern. The two species appear to have limited connectivity between St. Paul’s Rocks and the other Brazilian offshore islands. Given the differences in coloration and range difference, I will treat them as separate until a formal revision is done on the genus in the W. Atlantic. If they are shown to be the same species, the name S. rocasensis will take priority.
Stegastes sanctipauli tends to be more brownish yellow overall with a bright yellow tail and anterior trunk and head. Blue dorsal patterning in juveniles and adults seems to be minor or absent.