The Brown Comber, scientifically known as Serranus hepatus, is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Serranidae. This species is commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean and is characterized by its distinctive brown coloration.
Description & Characteristics
The Brown Comber is a relatively small fish, with a maximum recorded size of 25.0 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed laterally, giving it a streamlined appearance. The dorsal fin is continuous and has a prominent spiny portion followed by a soft-rayed portion. The anal fin is also continuous and has a spiny portion followed by a soft-rayed portion. The caudal fin is rounded and has a slightly forked appearance.
The color of Serranus hepatus can vary depending on its habitat and age. Generally, it has a brown or reddish-brown body with lighter markings. These markings may include spots, blotches, or stripes. The head of the Brown Comber is relatively large and has a prominent snout. Its eyes are large and positioned on the top of its head.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Brown Comber, Serranus hepatus, is found in the Atlantic Ocean, specifically in the Northeast Atlantic. It is typically found in rocky reefs, kelp forests, and other coastal habitats. The species has a depth range of 5.0 – 100.0 meters, indicating its preference for both shallow and deeper waters. These characteristics make the Brown Comber a common inhabitant of the Neritic zone, the marine zone extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Serranus hepatus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This classification places the Brown Comber within a diverse group of fish characterized by their spiny dorsal fins and their predatory nature.
Feeding
The Brown Comber, Serranus hepatus, is a carnivorous fish that preys on a variety of invertebrates and small fish. Its diet includes brine shrimps, clam meat, flakes, frozen food (large sort), invertebrates, krill, living food, mysis, rock shrimps, schrimps, shrimps, and zooplankton. This diverse feeding strategy highlights the adaptability of the Brown Comber in its marine environment.
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