The Northern Searobin, Prionotus carolinus, is a species of fish belonging to the family Triglidae. Its distinctive appearance and unique characteristics make it an interesting subject of study for marine biologists.
Description & Characteristics
The Northern Searobin is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 38.0 cm. It has a robust body shape with a large head and a flattened, triangular snout. The body is covered in small, rough scales and has a distinctive reddish-brown coloration with darker blotches and streaks. The Northern Searobin has prominent, fleshy barbels on its chin, which it uses to sense its surroundings. Its eyes are relatively large and set high on the head, granting it wide-angle vision. It also has three, finger-like, modified pectoral fin rays that act as “feelers” to help it navigate the seafloor.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Northern Searobin, Prionotus carolinus, is a demersal fish, meaning it typically lives on or near the bottom of the ocean floor. It can be found at depths ranging from 15.0 to 170.0 meters, inhabiting a variety of marine zones, including the epipelagic, mesopelagic, and bathypelagic zones. It is commonly found on sandy or muddy bottoms, as well as around rocky reefs and kelp forests. The Northern Searobin is widely distributed along the Atlantic coast of North America, from Nova Scotia to the Gulf of Mexico.
Taxonomy
The species Prionotus carolinus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Triglidae. These classifications place it within the group of bony fishes, specifically within the order of perch-like fishes. The family Triglidae encompasses a diverse group of fish known as sea robins, characterized by their unique sensory barbels and pectoral fin rays.
Feeding
The Northern Searobin, Prionotus carolinus, is a carnivorous fish. It feeds primarily on a variety of invertebrates, including clams, crabs, crustaceans, krill, mysids, and shrimp. It also preys on smaller fish. Its feeding strategy involves using its barbels to locate prey on the seabed. It then uses its sharp teeth to crush and consume its food.
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