The Lesser Weever (Echiichthys vipera) is a venomous fish commonly found in coastal waters of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean. It is a relatively small species, with a maximum size of 27.7 cm. This fish is known for its unique appearance and venomous spines, which are a defense mechanism against potential predators.
Description & Characteristics
The Lesser Weever (Echiichthys vipera) possesses a distinctive elongated body with a flattened head and a pointed snout. It is typically characterized by a mottled coloration, with shades of brown, grey, and white. The body is covered in small scales, and the dorsal fin is long and continuous, extending from the head to the tail. The most prominent feature is the venomous spine located on the dorsal fin, which is used for defense. It is a relatively small species, with a maximum size of 27.7 cm.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Lesser Weever (Echiichthys vipera) is a benthic species, meaning it prefers to live on the bottom of the ocean floor. They are typically found in shallow coastal waters, with a depth range of 3.0 to 50.0 meters. This species can be found in various marine zones, including the intertidal zone, subtidal zone, and the neritic zone. Their preference for sandy or muddy bottoms makes them a common sight in these environments.
Taxonomy
The species Echiichthys vipera belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Trachinidae. This family, known as the “weever fishes,” is comprised of several species, all characterized by venomous spines.
Feeding
The Lesser Weever (Echiichthys vipera) is a predatory fish, meaning it feeds on other organisms. Its diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, including crustaceans like shrimps and mysids, as well as fish larvae and cyclops. Its predatory nature plays an important role in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the balance of prey populations.
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