Masked greenling – Hexagrammos octogrammus

Hexagrammos octogrammus is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Hexagrammidae. This fish is commonly known as the “rock greenling”.

Description & Characteristics

Hexagrammos octogrammus can grow to a maximum size of 42.0 cm. This species exhibits a distinctive color pattern, often displaying shades of green, brown, and yellow. These colors help the fish blend seamlessly into its rocky environment.

Habitat and Occurrence

Hexagrammos octogrammus is a demersal fish, meaning it lives on or near the bottom of the seafloor. They inhabit a wide range of depths, from the surface to 200.0 meters, making them adaptable to various marine environments. This species is commonly found in rocky reefs and kelp forests, particularly in the neritic zone, the shallow waters near the coastline.

Taxonomy

Hexagrammos octogrammus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Hexagrammidae. This classification places it within the group of ray-finned fishes, specifically the perch-like fishes, and the family of greenlings, a group known for their elongated bodies and distinct color patterns.

Feeding

Hexagrammos octogrammus is a carnivorous fish, primarily feeding on a diet of invertebrates and smaller fish. Their diet may include crustaceans, mollusks, and other benthic organisms, highlighting their role as an important predator in their ecosystem.