Goblinfish – Glyptauchen panduratus

Goblinfish, Goblin Fish, Saddle Head, Saddle-headed Goblin Fish, Glyptauchen panduratus
Size: 20 cm
Depth: 3 - 60 m
Water Type: Marine
Toxicity: Has a poison harmful to health
Red List Status: Not evaluated (NE)
Temperature: 59 °F - 68.9 °F (15°C - 20.5°C)

The Goblin Fish, Saddle Head, Saddle-headed Goblin Fish, scientifically known as Glyptauchen panduratus, is a unique and intriguing fish species inhabiting the waters of the Indo-Pacific region.

Description & Characteristics

Glyptauchen panduratus is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 20.0 cm. Its most distinctive feature is its saddle-shaped head, which gives it its common names. This unusual head shape is a result of its elongated snout, which is covered in numerous sensory pores. The Goblin Fish, Saddle Head, Saddle-headed Goblin Fish has a compressed, elongated body, with a dorsal fin that extends almost the entire length of its back. Its coloration is typically a mottled brown or gray, providing excellent camouflage amongst the reefs and rocky outcrops it calls home.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Goblin Fish, Saddle Head, Saddle-headed Goblin Fish (Glyptauchen panduratus) is a benthic species, meaning it primarily lives on or near the seafloor. It is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, with a depth range of 5.0 – 60.0 meters. This places it within the epipelagic and mesopelagic zones, both of which are characterized by the presence of sunlight, though the mesopelagic zone receives significantly less light.

Taxonomy

The species Glyptauchen panduratus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Tetrarogidae. This family, known as the scorpionfishes, is renowned for its diverse and often striking members, many of which exhibit venomous spines.

Feeding

Glyptauchen panduratus is a carnivore, relying on a predatory diet. However, specific details regarding its feeding habits are limited. While it is known to be a predatory fish, the exact prey it targets and its hunting strategies are not fully understood. Further research is needed to provide a more complete understanding of its feeding ecology.

Associated Species

Image References

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