The Atlantic Horse Mackerel, scientifically known as Trachurus trachurus, is a common and commercially important fish species found in the Atlantic Ocean.
Description & Characteristics
The Atlantic Horse Mackerel is a streamlined, fusiform fish with a silvery-blue back and a silvery-white belly. It has a distinctive lateral line that runs along its body, marked by a series of small, bony scutes. The Trachurus trachurus can reach a maximum size of 70.0 cm, though individuals typically grow to about 30-40 cm. The fish has a forked tail and a relatively small mouth with sharp, pointed teeth.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Atlantic Horse Mackerel is a pelagic fish, meaning it lives in the open ocean. It can be found in a wide range of depths, from the surface down to 1050.0 meters. This species typically inhabits the neritic and oceanic zones, demonstrating a preference for coastal waters and offshore habitats.
Taxonomy
The species Trachurus trachurus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Carangiformes, and Family: Carangidae. This family encompasses a diverse range of fish, including jacks, scads, and horse mackerels, all characterized by their streamlined bodies and predatory nature.
Feeding
The Atlantic Horse Mackerel is a carnivorous fish with a diverse diet. Its feeding habits are opportunistic, and it consumes a wide range of prey items, including: algae, amphipods, aquatic plants, clams, copepods, crabs, crustaceans, edible crabs, fish (little fishes), fish larvae, hydrozoa polyps, invertebrates, jellyfish, krill, lobster, mysis, rock shrimps, schrimps, sea squirts, sepia, snails, sponges, worms, and zooplankton. This broad dietary spectrum reflects its adaptability to different environments and prey availability.
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