The Cobbler Perch, Red-spotted Gurnard Perch, Ruddy Gurnard Perch, Smooth Gurnard Perch, Spotted Gurnard Perch, and Common Gurnard Perch, scientifically known as Neosebastes scorpaenoides, is a species of marine fish that is commonly found in the waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 40.0 cm. This species exhibits a range of distinctive characteristics and plays a significant role in the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Neosebastes scorpaenoides is easily recognizable by its distinctive features. It has a robust, elongated body shape, adorned with a reddish-brown hue. Its body is covered in numerous, small, red-brown spots, lending it its common name of “Spotted Gurnard Perch”. These spots are more prominent on the dorsal and lateral regions of the fish. Its head is large, with a prominent snout and a small, upturned mouth. It possesses large eyes that are positioned high on the head, providing it with a broad field of vision. Neosebastes scorpaenoides has a prominent dorsal fin that extends the length of its back, a distinct caudal fin with a rounded tip, and well-defined pectoral fins that are often used to propel the fish through the water.
Habitat and Occurrence
Neosebastes scorpaenoides is a demersal species, typically inhabiting the benthos – the bottom layer of a body of water. It is commonly found in a range of marine zones, including coastal waters, reefs, and rocky substrates. It exhibits a depth preference, typically dwelling between 2.0 and 140.0 meters below the surface. This species is a common sight in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Pacific Islands. It is a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems, contributing to the biodiversity of the region.
Taxonomy
The species Neosebastes scorpaenoides belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Neosebastidae. It is a member of the family Neosebastidae, which is a diverse group of fishes characterized by their robust body shape and a variety of distinctive features.
Feeding
Neosebastes scorpaenoides is a predatory fish, with a diet that consists primarily of a variety of marine invertebrates. It is a versatile predator, feeding on a wide range of prey items, including amphipods, copepods, crustaceans, small fish, mysis, shrimps, zoobenthos, and zooplankton. Its diet reflects its position in the food web as a mid-level predator, contributing to the overall balance of the ecosystem.
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