The High Cockscomb (Anoplarchus purpurescens) is a fish species found in the marine waters of the North Pacific Ocean. It is a slender, elongated fish with a distinctive, high dorsal fin that resembles a cockscomb. The species is classified under the family Stichaeidae, also known as the pricklebacks, and is a member of the diverse and abundant order Perciformes, which includes many common fish species.
Description & Characteristics
The High Cockscomb (Anoplarchus purpurescens) is a relatively small fish, typically reaching a maximum size of 20.0 cm. It has a slender, elongated body with a distinctive, high dorsal fin that resembles a cockscomb. The coloration of the High Cockscomb (Anoplarchus purpurescens) varies depending on the individual and the environment, but it typically displays shades of brown, olive green, and purple. This species also has a distinctive lateral line that runs along the side of its body.
Habitat and Occurrence
The High Cockscomb (Anoplarchus purpurescens) is typically found in subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones, inhabiting the deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems. The species is considered neritic, meaning it is found in coastal waters, and can be found in a variety of habitats including rocky reefs, kelp forests, and sandy bottoms.
Taxonomy
The High Cockscomb (Anoplarchus purpurescens) belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Stichaeidae. This classification places the species within a large and diverse group of fishes that are characterized by their spiny dorsal fins, which are typical of the order Perciformes. The family Stichaeidae includes many fish species with elongated bodies and distinctive dorsal fins.
Feeding
The High Cockscomb (Anoplarchus purpurescens) is a carnivore, feeding primarily on worms. This dietary preference is common among many fish species in the Stichaeidae family, who are adapted to forage in the benthic zone, the bottom of the ocean floor.
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