The Kelp Bass, Rock Sea Bass, Sea Bass – Paralabrax clathratus is a species of marine fish commonly found along the Pacific coast of North America. It is a popular target for recreational anglers, and its distinctive appearance and energetic behavior make it a fascinating creature to observe in its natural habitat.
Description & Characteristics
Paralabrax clathratus has a robust, elongated body with a distinctive, slightly compressed head. The fish is typically gray to olive-green in color, with darker markings on the flanks and a lighter underside. The fins are generally a yellowish or grayish color. The species can reach a maximum size of 72.0 cm and is known to inhabit depths ranging from 1.0 to 61.0 meters.
Habitat and Occurrence
Paralabrax clathratus is a common inhabitant of rocky reefs, kelp forests, and other coastal habitats. It is typically found in the nearshore waters of the Pacific Ocean, ranging from southern California to Baja California, Mexico. This species often frequents areas with strong currents and abundant marine life, including the neritic zone and the epipelagic zone.
Taxonomy
The species Paralabrax clathratus belongs to the family Serranidae, which includes a diverse group of fishes commonly known as sea basses, groupers, and anthias. It is a member of the order Perciformes, a large and diverse group that includes many familiar fish species, such as perch, bass, and tuna. Paralabrax clathratus, along with other members of its family, falls under the class Teleostei, which comprises the vast majority of bony fish species.
Feeding
Paralabrax clathratus is an opportunistic predator, feeding on a variety of marine organisms. Its diet consists primarily of crustaceans, such as crabs and shrimp, as well as smaller fish. It is also known to consume cephalopods, including squid and cuttlefish. In captivity, Paralabrax clathratus has been observed to consume frozen food, especially larger items.
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