Parioglossus Dotui – Parioglossus dotui

Parioglossus dotui, commonly referred to as Parioglossus Dotui, is a small, slender fish belonging to the Microdesmidae family. This species is characterized by its distinctive features and plays a significant role within its marine habitat.

Description & Characteristics

Parioglossus dotui is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 4.0 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, with a pointed head and a slightly rounded tail. The fish possesses a distinct dorsal fin that extends nearly the length of its back, and its pelvic fins are located close to the throat.

Habitat and Occurrence

Parioglossus Dotui exhibits a preference for shallow, coastal waters, typically residing in depths ranging from 0.0 to 5.0 meters. This species is commonly found in the intertidal zone and is often associated with coral reefs and rocky areas. Parioglossus Dotui’s preference for these habitats makes it a prevalent presence in the neritic zone, the marine environment extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.

Taxonomy

Parioglossus dotui belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Microdesmidae. The Teleostei class encompasses a vast majority of bony fish, representing a diverse and abundant group within the animal kingdom. The Order: Gobiiformes, also known as gobies, comprises a wide range of small, bottom-dwelling fish, many of which are adapted to living in burrows or crevices. The Family: Microdesmidae, commonly known as “shrimp gobies,” is a diverse family of fish known for their slender bodies and their association with various benthic environments, including coral reefs and seagrass meadows.

Feeding

Parioglossus dotui is a carnivorous fish, feeding primarily on zoobenthos and zooplankton. Zoobenthos refers to the organisms that live on the bottom of bodies of water, while zooplankton comprises small animals that drift in the water column. This feeding strategy highlights Parioglossus dotui’s role in the food chain as a consumer of smaller organisms within its ecosystem.