The Golden-eyed Leatherjacket, Small Brown Leatherjacket, Bridled Leatherjacke, scientifically known as Acanthaluteres spilomelanurus, is a fascinating and unique fish species found in various marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
This fish boasts a distinctive appearance with a maximum size reaching 14.0 cm. Its body is characterized by a brown coloration often adorned with darker speckles and markings, lending it its common name. The Golden-eyed Leatherjacket, Small Brown Leatherjacket, Bridled Leatherjacke is easily recognizable due to its prominent, golden-colored eyes. Its body is typically compressed, with a single, sharp spine located on the dorsal fin. The presence of these features contributes to its classification as a member of the leatherjacket family.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Golden-eyed Leatherjacket, Small Brown Leatherjacket, Bridled Leatherjacke is a common inhabitant of estuaries (river mouths), seagrass meadows, and eelgrass meadows. These environments provide the ideal conditions for this species to thrive. It can be found in various marine zones, including temperate and tropical waters. This broad habitat preference makes it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Acanthaluteres spilomelanurus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Tetraodontiformes, and Family: Monacanthidae. This classification places it within a diverse group of fish known for their unique physical characteristics and ecological roles.
Feeding
The Golden-eyed Leatherjacket, Small Brown Leatherjacket, Bridled Leatherjacke is a carnivore, primarily feeding on zooplankton. This diet plays a vital role in the marine food web, contributing to the overall balance and stability of these ecosystems.
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