The Cockatoo Righteye Flounder (Samaris cristatus) is a flatfish species belonging to the family Samaridae. Its unique appearance and intriguing behavior make it a fascinating subject in marine biology.
Description & Characteristics
The Cockatoo Righteye Flounder is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 22.3 cm. Its body is flattened and asymmetrical, a typical characteristic of flatfish, with both eyes located on the right side of its head. This adaptation allows it to lie camouflaged on the seafloor, effectively concealing itself from predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Cockatoo Righteye Flounder (Samaris cristatus) is a demersal species, inhabiting the bottom layers of the ocean. Its depth range is from 20.0 to 114.0 meters, making it a frequent resident of the continental shelf and upper slope. This species is typically found in temperate marine zones, making it a familiar sight in the diverse underwater landscapes of these regions.
Taxonomy
The Cockatoo Righteye Flounder (Samaris cristatus) is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Pleuronectiformes, and Family: Samaridae. This classification reflects its evolutionary relationship to other flatfish species, emphasizing its unique adaptations and shared ancestry within this group.
Feeding
The Cockatoo Righteye Flounder (Samaris cristatus) is an opportunistic carnivore, feeding primarily on invertebrates found on the seafloor. Its diet includes a wide range of organisms like krill, mysis, rock shrimps, shrimps, worms, and zoobenthos, demonstrating its adaptability to various food sources within its habitat.
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