The Orange-lined Bullseye, Orangelined Bullseye, or Orange Striped Bullseye (Pempheris ornata) is a small, striking fish species found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This fish is easily recognizable for its distinctive orange stripes and its unique, bulging eyes.
Description & Characteristics
The Orange-lined Bullseye (Pempheris ornata) is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 7.5 cm. This species is characterized by its vibrant orange stripes, which run vertically down its body, contrasting with its silver-grey background. Its most distinctive feature is its large, prominent, bulging eyes that give it the appearance of a “bullseye”. These eyes, located on the top of the head, are a testament to the nocturnal nature of the species.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Orange-lined Bullseye (Pempheris ornata) is typically found in shallow coastal waters, often in areas with coral reefs and rocky outcrops. This species prefers depths ranging from 9.0 to 30.0 meters. Its presence is most common in the Indo-Pacific region, making it a prevalent presence in the tropical waters of this expansive marine area. It’s found in various marine zones including coral reefs, rocky reefs, and seagrass beds.
Taxonomy
The species Pempheris ornata belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acropomatiformes, and Family: Pempheridae. This classification places it within a group of fish known for their unique adaptations to their nocturnal lifestyles.
Feeding
The Orange-lined Bullseye (Pempheris ornata) is a nocturnal predator that feeds primarily on a variety of small invertebrates and plankton. Its diet includes a range of organisms like amphipods, copepods, Daphnia salina, fish larvae, krill, mysis, zoobenthos, and zooplankton. The large eyes of this species are crucial for hunting in the dimly lit environments where it forages for food at night.
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