The Bartel’s Dragonet, scientifically known as Synchiropus bartelsi, is a small, captivating fish belonging to the dragonet family (Callionymidae). This species is recognized for its striking colors and intriguing behavior, making it a fascinating subject for marine enthusiasts and researchers alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Bartel’s Dragonet is a diminutive fish, reaching a maximum size of 4.5 centimeters. Their bodies are characterized by vivid colors and patterns, contributing to their captivating appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Bartel’s Dragonet (Synchiropus bartelsi) is a demersal species, meaning it typically inhabits the bottom of the seafloor. They are found within a depth range of 0.0 to 35.0 meters, making them a prevalent presence in both shallow coastal waters and slightly deeper environments. These fish are known to inhabit a variety of marine zones, including the intertidal zone, the continental shelf, and even the oceanic zone. Their adaptability to different depths and environments contributes to their widespread distribution.
Taxonomy
The species Synchiropus bartelsi belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Callionymiformes, and Family: Callionymidae. This classification places the Bartel’s Dragonet within a group of fish characterized by their distinctive features, including a flattened body, large pectoral fins, and often, a prominent dorsal fin. These characteristics distinguish them from other fish families within the larger group of ray-finned fishes (Teleostei).
Feeding
The Bartel’s Dragonet (Synchiropus bartelsi) is a carnivore, primarily feeding on small crustaceans, invertebrates, and zooplankton. Their diet consists of organisms found on the seafloor (zoobenthos) and within the water column (zooplankton), contributing to their ecological role as a small predator within the marine environment.
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