Chelidonichthys capensis, commonly known as the Cape gurnard, is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Triglidae. This species is a prominent member of the seafloor ecosystem, characterized by its distinctive features and intriguing biology.
Description & Characteristics
The Cape gurnard, Chelidonichthys capensis, can attain a maximum size of 75.0 cm, showcasing its substantial presence in the marine environment. This fish is distinguished by its robust body, with a slightly compressed form. The dorsal fin is divided into two sections, separated by a deep notch. The first section, known as the spiny dorsal fin, is composed of eight to ten spines, while the second, the soft dorsal fin, comprises 16 to 19 soft rays.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Chelidonichthys capensis is a demersal species, inhabiting the seafloor, typically found in depths ranging from 10.0 to 390.0 meters. This broad depth range indicates its adaptability to various marine environments. Chelidonichthys capensis is distributed in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, specifically off the coasts of South Africa and Namibia. These regions are characterized by the presence of various marine zones, from coastal waters to the deeper oceanic environments, encompassing the epipelagic, mesopelagic, and bathypelagic zones. The Cape gurnard’s presence in such a variety of zones signifies its role as a crucial component of the diverse ecosystems within this area.
Taxonomy
Chelidonichthys capensis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Triglidae. The Teleostei, also known as the “bony fishes”, represent the largest and most diverse group of fishes, comprising over 20,000 species. The Perciformes, the “perch-like” fishes, are the largest order of vertebrates, comprising over 40% of all bony fish species. The Triglidae, commonly known as the “gurnards” or “sea robins”, is a family of ray-finned fishes, known for their distinctive features like “finger-like” pectoral fin rays, which they use for sensing prey on the seafloor.
Feeding
Chelidonichthys capensis is a carnivorous fish, primarily feeding on crustaceans, molluscs, and other small fish. The “finger-like” pectoral fin rays help it locate prey on the seafloor, contributing to its effective feeding strategy.
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