The Masked Grouper, Gracila albomarginata, is a species of fish belonging to the Serranidae family, commonly known as groupers. These fish are characterized by their robust bodies and large mouths, making them formidable predators within their marine habitats.
Description & Characteristics
The Masked Grouper, Gracila albomarginata, is a medium-sized grouper species, reaching a maximum length of 40.0 cm. This species is easily recognized by its distinctive color pattern, with a predominantly white body adorned with dark brown or black markings. Its head features a prominent dark mask-like pattern, extending from its eyes towards the mouth, which gives it its common name. Its fins are generally pale yellow, with a dark margin around the edges.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Masked Grouper, Gracila albomarginata, is a demersal fish that thrives in a variety of marine habitats. It is commonly found in coastal waters, coral reefs, and rocky areas, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region. The species exhibits a depth range from 0.0 to 120.0 meters, indicating its adaptability to both shallow and deeper environments.
Taxonomy
The Masked Grouper, Gracila albomarginata, is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This classification places it among the bony fishes, specifically within the order that includes perch-like fish. The Serranidae family encompasses a diverse range of groupers, characterized by their large mouths, robust bodies, and often, prominent teeth.
Feeding
The Masked Grouper, Gracila albomarginata, is a carnivorous fish with a diverse diet. Its feeding habits include consuming crabs, crustaceans, small fish, invertebrates, and shrimp. Its large mouth and powerful jaws make it a formidable predator, capable of capturing and swallowing prey of considerable size.
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