The Highfin Coral Grouper, Highfin Coral Trout, Highfin Coralgrouper, Lined Coral Trout, Vermicular Leopard-cod, Vermicular-cod, and Vermicular Cod (Plectropomus oligacanthus) is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Serranidae, commonly known as groupers. This species is characterized by its distinctive appearance and predatory behavior, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky areas in the Indo-Pacific region.
Description & Characteristics
Plectropomus oligacanthus is a robust fish with a slightly compressed body. It can reach a maximum size of 75.0 cm. The body is adorned with a distinctive pattern of vermicular (worm-like) markings, giving it its common names. The dorsal fin is high and continuous, extending from the head to the tail. The fish has a prominent chin barbel and a large mouth filled with sharp teeth, indicative of its predatory nature.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Highfin Coral Grouper (Plectropomus oligacanthus) is typically found in coral reefs and rocky areas, often inhabiting crevices and caves. It is a common inhabitant of the Indo-Pacific region, with a depth range of 5.0 to 147.0 meters. This wide depth range allows Plectropomus oligacanthus to inhabit various marine zones, including the Neritic zone (coastal waters), and deeper Oceanic zones.
Taxonomy
The species Plectropomus oligacanthus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This classification places Plectropomus oligacanthus within the diverse group of ray-finned fishes, specifically the perch-like fishes, and the family known for its robust, often predatory members.
Feeding
Plectropomus oligacanthus is a carnivore and a predatory fish. Its diet primarily consists of fish, particularly smaller fishes, which it hunts and captures using its sharp teeth. The species’ hunting behavior is an important aspect of its ecological role in the marine ecosystem.
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