Bluelined hind – Cephalopholis formosa

The Bluelined Hind, scientifically known as Cephalopholis formosa, is a species of fish belonging to the Serranidae family. This captivating marine creature is characterized by its striking blue lines, giving it its distinctive common name.

Description & Characteristics

Cephalopholis formosa, commonly referred to as the Bluelined Hind, is a relatively small fish, with an average maximum size of 34.0 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed laterally, exhibiting a vibrant coloration marked by prominent blue lines. These lines run vertically down the body, creating a visually striking pattern against the fish’s overall background color.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Bluelined Hind, Cephalopholis formosa, is primarily found in reef environments, typically inhabiting depths between 1.0 and 30.0 meters. This range encompasses various marine zones, from shallow coastal reefs to deeper drop-offs. This adaptability allows the species to thrive in a diverse array of habitats, contributing to its widespread presence across its distribution.

Taxonomy

Cephalopholis formosa belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This classification places it within the diverse and abundant group of ray-finned fishes, specifically the perch-like fishes, which are characterized by their spiny dorsal fins. The Serranidae family encompasses a wide range of marine fishes, known for their predatory habits and often exhibiting striking color patterns.

Feeding

Cephalopholis formosa, the Bluelined Hind, is a carnivore that primarily feeds on smaller fish. Its diet consists mainly of little fishes, which it actively pursues and captures within its reef habitat. This predatory behavior is typical of many members of the Serranidae family, reflecting their adaptation to a diet based on smaller marine organisms.