Bothus guibei is a species of flatfish belonging to the family Bothidae. This species is characterized by its distinctive flattened body and asymmetrically positioned eyes, a common adaptation among flatfish.
Description & Characteristics
Bothus guibei exhibits a maximum size of 28.6 cm. The species is adapted to a benthic lifestyle, dwelling on the seafloor. Its flattened body allows it to lie flat on the substrate, effectively camouflaging itself against predators. The eyes are located on one side of the head, providing a wide field of vision.
Habitat and Occurrence
Bothus guibei is found in marine environments, specifically in the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. It is typically found at depths ranging from 15.0 to 40.0 meters. These depths correspond to the bathyal zone, a deeper region within the neritic zone. This species is known to inhabit areas with a sandy or muddy substrate, providing suitable conditions for its benthic lifestyle.
Taxonomy
Bothus guibei belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Pleuronectiformes, and Family: Bothidae. The Teleostei is the largest order of bony fish, containing over 20,000 species. The Pleuronectiformes order includes all the flatfishes, characterized by their flattened bodies and asymmetrically positioned eyes. The Bothidae family, known as the lefteye flounders, comprises a diverse group of flatfish species, including Bothus guibei.
Feeding
Bothus guibei, like many other flatfish species, is a carnivorous feeder. It primarily preys on smaller invertebrates that inhabit the seafloor, including crustaceans, worms, and mollusks. Its camouflage and ambush hunting strategy allow it to effectively capture its prey within its benthic habitat.
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