The Ambanoro Goby, Twin-spotted Shrimp Goby, Twin-spotted Shrimp-goby, scientifically known as Vanderhorstia ambanoro, is a captivating fish species that graces the marine environment. This species, often found in shallow coastal waters, exhibits a unique combination of characteristics and behaviors that make it a fascinating subject of study for marine biologists and aquarists alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Vanderhorstia ambanoro is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 13.0 cm. This goby species is characterized by its slender, elongated body and distinct color pattern. It features a vibrant orange or yellow coloration, often interspersed with white or black spots. These spots can vary in size and distribution, making each individual Vanderhorstia ambanoro unique. Its dorsal fin is characterized by a series of black spots, contributing to its common name “Twin-spotted Shrimp Goby.” The Vanderhorstia ambanoro possesses large, prominent eyes, which enhance its ability to navigate its surroundings and locate prey.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Vanderhorstia ambanoro is a common inhabitant of shallow coastal waters, typically found in depths ranging from 1.0 to 30.0 meters. This goby species thrives in a variety of marine zones, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky shores. Its adaptability to different environments allows it to thrive in a diverse range of habitats.
Taxonomy
The species Vanderhorstia ambanoro belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. This classification places it within a large and diverse group of fish known for their specialized adaptations to a wide range of aquatic environments. The Gobiidae family, in particular, comprises a significant number of species, many of which exhibit unique and intriguing characteristics.
Feeding
The Vanderhorstia ambanoro is an opportunistic carnivore, feeding primarily on a variety of small invertebrates. Its diet consists of amphipods, brine shrimps, copepods, crustaceans, cyclops, Daphnia salina, invertebrates, krill, mysids, zoobenthos, and zooplankton. This diverse dietary preference allows the Vanderhorstia ambanoro to readily adapt to the availability of prey in its chosen habitat. Its ability to efficiently locate and consume these small invertebrates makes it an important part of the marine food web.
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