The Barred Sand Bass (Paralabrax nebulifer) is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Serranidae. These fish are known for their distinctive barred coloration and are a common sight in the coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Description and Characteristics
The Barred Sand Bass (Paralabrax nebulifer) typically reaches a maximum size of 67.0 cm. Its body is elongated and somewhat compressed, with a large mouth and sharp teeth. Their coloration is highly variable, but typically features a pattern of dark bars on a lighter background, hence their common name. The dorsal fin is continuous and has a distinct spiny portion.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Barred Sand Bass (Paralabrax nebulifer) has a wide depth range, inhabiting waters from 1.0 to 183.0 meters deep. They are typically found in rocky reefs, kelp forests, and sandy bottoms. This species is a common inhabitant of the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The Barred Sand Bass (Paralabrax nebulifer) belongs to the family Serranidae, which includes a diverse group of fish commonly known as sea basses or groupers. The Serranidae family falls within the Order Perciformes, a large order of fish that encompasses many familiar species, including perch, bass, and walleye. These fish, in turn, belong to the Class Teleostei, which comprises most of the bony fish species.
Feeding
The Barred Sand Bass (Paralabrax nebulifer) is a carnivorous fish. Its diet consists primarily of smaller fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. This species is an important predator in its ecosystem, playing a role in regulating the populations of its prey.
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