The Arrowtooth Cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus lachneri) is a species of fish belonging to the cardinalfish family Apogonidae. It is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 12.0 cm. This species is known for its distinctive arrow-shaped teeth, which are prominent in its lower jaw.
Description & Characteristics
Cheilodipterus lachneri exhibits a slender and elongated body shape, typical of cardinalfishes. It is characterized by its silvery-gray to brown coloration, often with darker bands or spots along its flanks. The most striking feature of this species is its distinctive arrow-shaped teeth in the lower jaw, which are considerably larger than its other teeth. These teeth are thought to be used for capturing prey, particularly invertebrates. This species possesses a pair of prominent eyes, positioned on the sides of its head, allowing for good visual acuity in its underwater environment.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Arrowtooth Cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus lachneri) is a demersal fish, meaning it typically inhabits the bottom layers of the ocean. It is commonly found in coastal reefs and rocky shores, particularly in areas with ample cover provided by coral formations or algae. The species is distributed throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Philippines and Australia.
Taxonomy
The species Cheilodipterus lachneri belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Kurtiformes, and Family: Apogonidae. Teleostei is the most diverse group of bony fishes, encompassing a wide range of species. Kurtiformes is a relatively small order of fishes primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters. The family Apogonidae, commonly known as cardinalfishes, is a diverse group of small to medium-sized fishes characterized by their slender bodies and large eyes.
Feeding
The Arrowtooth Cardinalfish (Cheilodipterus lachneri) is a carnivore, primarily feeding on a diet of invertebrates, zooplankton, and zoobenthos. Its distinctive arrow-shaped teeth play a crucial role in capturing and processing these prey items. The species typically forages in the benthos, searching for food among the bottom sediments and under rocks and coral formations.
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