Butterfly gurnard – Lepidotrigla vanessa

Size: 28 cm
Depth: 10 - 100 m

Lepidotrigla vanessa is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Triglidae, commonly known as the gurnards. This species is characterized by its distinct physical features and its role within the marine ecosystem.

Description & Characteristics

Lepidotrigla vanessa can reach a maximum size of 28.0 cm. It exhibits a unique combination of physical characteristics that distinguish it from other members of the Triglidae family.

Habitat and Occurrence

Lepidotrigla vanessa is a demersal species, meaning it lives on or near the seabed. Its depth range spans from 10.0 to 100.0 meters, indicating its preference for relatively deep waters. This species is typically found in the Northeast Atlantic, particularly the Mediterranean Sea, which falls within the temperate marine zone. This distribution underscores its adaptability to a specific set of environmental conditions.

Taxonomy

The species Lepidotrigla vanessa belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Triglidae. This classification highlights its evolutionary lineage within the broader group of bony fishes, specifically within the order that includes perches and their relatives.

Feeding

Like many members of the Triglidae family, Lepidotrigla vanessa is primarily a carnivorous species. Its diet consists of smaller marine organisms, including invertebrates and fish, which it locates and captures using its specialized sensory organs. Its feeding habits contribute to the intricate food web dynamics within its marine habitat.

Associated Species

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