Bluespotted seabass – Cephalopholis taeniops

The Bluespotted Seabass, scientifically known as Cephalopholis taeniops, is a captivating marine fish species that boasts a unique and striking appearance. This fish is a member of the Serranidae family, commonly referred to as groupers, and belongs to the Class Teleostei, Order Perciformes, which encompasses a diverse range of bony fishes.

Description & Characteristics

The Bluespotted Seabass, Cephalopholis taeniops, is easily recognizable due to its distinctive blue spots scattered across its body, providing a striking contrast against its reddish-brown background. This fish can reach a maximum size of 70.0 cm, making it a relatively large species. Its body shape is elongated and robust, with a slightly compressed profile. Cephalopholis taeniops features a prominent, slightly protruding mouth and large, widely spaced eyes, which contribute to its predatory nature.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Bluespotted Seabass, Cephalopholis taeniops, inhabits a wide range of depths, typically residing between 20.0 and 300.0 meters. This species is commonly found in the temperate and tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, where it is a familiar sight in coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and seamounts. These habitats provide ample shelter and hunting grounds for this predatory fish. Cephalopholis taeniops thrives in a variety of marine zones, including the epipelagic, mesopelagic, and bathypelagic zones, showcasing its adaptability to different depths and conditions.

Feeding

The Bluespotted Seabass, Cephalopholis taeniops, is a carnivorous species with a varied diet. This fish is a skilled predator, employing its keen eyesight and ambush tactics to hunt its prey. Its diet consists primarily of crustaceans, including crabs, mantis shrimps, and hermit crabs, as well as smaller fish, worms, cephalopods like sepia, and various invertebrates. Cephalopholis taeniops is an opportunistic feeder, taking advantage of available food sources in its environment, playing a vital role in the marine food web.

Taxonomy

The Bluespotted Seabass, Cephalopholis taeniops, is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This taxonomic classification places Cephalopholis taeniops within a large and diverse group of fishes, reflecting its shared evolutionary history and adaptations.