The Blue Bastard – Plectorhinchus caeruleonothus is a species of marine fish belonging to the grunt family, Haemulidae. It is a relatively large fish, reaching a maximum size of 100.0 cm. This striking species is known for its distinctive blue coloration, particularly on its head and body. It is a common sight in the coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
Description & Characteristics
The Blue Bastard is characterized by its elongated body, a compressed profile, and a slightly protruding snout. Its body is predominantly blue, with a lighter belly and distinctive dark blotches on its sides. It possesses a single dorsal fin, which is slightly curved and marked with dark streaks. The anal fin is also marked with dark bands, and the pectoral fins are relatively short. The Blue Bastard exhibits a unique characteristic – its pelvic fins are positioned just below the pectoral fins, a feature that sets it apart from other grunts.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Blue Bastard – Plectorhinchus caeruleonothus – is found in a variety of marine environments, typically inhabiting reefs and rocky areas. It is a common resident of the Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea and the East African coast to the Pacific Islands. The species prefers to inhabit depths ranging from 6.0 to 30.0 meters, meaning it can be found in both shallow and deeper waters. Its distribution encompasses the following marine zones: tropical and subtropical waters, typically within the neritic zone.
Taxonomy
The species Plectorhinchus caeruleonothus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Haemulidae. This classification places the Blue Bastard within the diverse group of ray-finned fishes, which includes a vast array of species known for their bony skeletons and fins supported by rays. The Haemulidae family, commonly known as grunts, comprises over 60 species, primarily inhabiting the tropical and subtropical waters of the world.
Feeding
The Blue Bastard – Plectorhinchus caeruleonothus – is a carnivorous fish with a diverse diet. It feeds primarily on invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. It also consumes nekton, which includes small fish and squid. The Blue Bastard’s diet can also include zoobenthos, which are animals that live on the ocean floor, and zooplankton, small organisms that drift in the water column.
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