The Red-flushed Cod, Red-flushed Rockcod, Red-flushed Rock-cod, Redmouth Groper, Redmouth Grouper, Redmouth Rockcod, scientifically known as Aethaloperca rogaa, is a captivating marine fish renowned for its striking appearance and diverse habitat preferences.
Description & Characteristics
Aethaloperca rogaa can reach a maximum size of 60.0 cm, making it a moderately sized fish. Its defining features include a robust body, a distinct red flush across its head and body, and a prominent red coloration around its mouth. This red hue is particularly noticeable in mature individuals, contributing to its various common names.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Aethaloperca rogaa exhibits a remarkable adaptability, thriving in a variety of marine environments. It can be found at depths ranging from 3.0 to 60.0 meters, showcasing its ability to navigate both shallow and deeper waters. Its preferred habitats include coral reefs, lagoons, rocky reefs, unconsolidated muddy grounds, underwater caves, and underwater caverns. This broad habitat preference contributes to its widespread distribution. The Aethaloperca rogaa is particularly prevalent in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, making it a common sight in these marine zones.
Taxonomy
The species Aethaloperca rogaa belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This classification places it within the diverse group of bony fishes that includes a wide range of species, including many of the familiar fish found in both freshwater and marine environments.
Feeding
As a carnivore, the Aethaloperca rogaa plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. Its diet consists primarily of crustaceans, crabs, edible crab, fish (including small fishes), frozen food (large sort), krill, mantis shrimps, mysis, rock lobster, and shrimps. This diverse feeding pattern underscores its importance in the food web and its role in maintaining the balance of its marine habitat.
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