The Bald-spot Monocle Bream, Rainbow Monocle Bream, scientifically known as Scolopsis temporalis, is a captivating marine fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is a striking example of the diversity and beauty found within the marine environment. This species is a member of the Nemipteridae family, a group of fishes commonly referred to as “threadfin breams” or “monocle breams.”
Description & Characteristics
Scolopsis temporalis, a relatively small species, can reach a maximum size of 35.0 cm. Its body is characterized by a vibrant and colorful pattern, with a reddish-brown hue that is adorned with vertical bands of iridescent blue or green. The fish’s head is particularly striking, featuring a prominent “monocle” – a large, dark spot located just below the eye. This distinctive feature, combined with its vibrant coloration, makes the Bald-spot Monocle Bream a delightful sight for divers and marine enthusiasts.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Bald-spot Monocle Bream, Rainbow Monocle Bream is a common inhabitant of various marine zones. It can be found in subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. This species, classified as neritic, thrives in the coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs and rocky areas.
Taxonomy
The species Scolopsis temporalis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Nemipteridae. This classification reflects its position within the broader taxonomic hierarchy of fishes, highlighting its evolutionary relationships and distinctive features.
Feeding
The Bald-spot Monocle Bream, Rainbow Monocle Bream is an opportunistic feeder with a varied diet. Its primary food sources include crustaceans, invertebrates, mysis, sepia (cuttlefish), worms, and zoobenthos. This diverse diet reflects its adaptability and role as a significant part of the marine food web.
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