The Finless Sole, Moses Sole, Red Sea Moses Sole (Pardachirus marmoratus) is a fascinating flatfish species found in the warm waters of the Red Sea. Its unique appearance and behavior make it a captivating subject for marine enthusiasts.
Description & Characteristics
The Pardachirus marmoratus is a relatively small flatfish, reaching a maximum size of 26.0 cm. It possesses a distinctive, flattened body shape, with both eyes situated on the right side of its head, a characteristic of flatfish. The left side of its body is typically pale, while the right side features a complex pattern of brown and white blotches, resembling a mosaic, giving rise to its common name “marmoratus” which translates to “marbled” in Latin.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Finless Sole, Moses Sole, Red Sea Moses Sole (Pardachirus marmoratus) is a bottom-dwelling fish, typically found at depths ranging from 1.0 to 15.0 meters. It prefers sandy or muddy substrates in coastal areas, making it a common inhabitant of shallow marine zones along the Red Sea coast. Its distribution is largely limited to this region, showcasing its adaptation to specific environmental conditions.
Taxonomy
The species Pardachirus marmoratus belongs to the family Soleidae, which encompasses a wide variety of flatfish. These fish belong to the Order Pleuronectiformes, a diverse group known for their flattened bodies and unique eye placement. The Soleidae family and the Order Pleuronectiformes fall under the Class Teleostei, the largest group of bony fish, encompassing a vast array of species.
Feeding
The Finless Sole, Moses Sole, Red Sea Moses Sole (Pardachirus marmoratus) is a carnivorous fish, primarily feeding on a variety of benthic invertebrates. Its diet consists of clams, crustaceans, small fish, worms, and shrimps. It is known to be a opportunistic feeder, readily consuming frozen food, particularly larger offerings. This dietary flexibility contributes to its adaptability and successful existence in its specific marine habitat.
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