The Blue Dartfish, Blue Goby, Hovering Dartfish, scientifically known as Ptereleotris calliura, is a captivating and vibrant fish species. Renowned for its striking blue coloration and intriguing behavior, the Ptereleotris calliura has earned its place as a popular choice among marine aquarists. Its unique hovering stance and darting movements make it a fascinating sight to behold.
Description & Characteristics
The Ptereleotris calliura is characterized by its striking blue coloration, especially prominent on its body and fins. Its body is slender and elongated, with a maximum size of 12.5 cm. The species exhibits a unique hovering behavior, often remaining suspended in the water column, a behavior that contributes to its common name.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Ptereleotris calliura typically inhabits the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans. This species is prevalent in these marine ecosystems, ranging from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 m water depth. It is also considered a neritic species, inhabiting waters over the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Ptereleotris calliura belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Microdesmidae. This taxonomic classification places it within the diverse and fascinating world of bony fishes, specifically the goby-like fishes, and a specific family known as the Microdesmidae.
Feeding
The Ptereleotris calliura is a carnivorous species with a diet consisting mainly of copepods, Daphnia salina, Invertebrates, Mysis, Zoobenthos, and Zooplankton. These organisms form the foundation of its food chain, contributing to its survival and growth within its marine environment.
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