The Lord Howe Scaly-headed Triplefin, Scalyhead Triplefin, or Scalyhead Threefin, scientifically known as Norfolkia squamiceps, is a small, intriguing fish found in the waters surrounding Lord Howe Island. It is a member of the triplefin family, known for their unique three dorsal fins.
Description & Characteristics
The Norfolkia squamiceps is characterized by its scaly head, a distinctive feature that gives it its common names. It can grow to a maximum size of 6.6 cm. This small fish typically resides within the shallows, inhabiting a depth range from the surface to a maximum of 12 meters.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Norfolkia squamiceps is found in the coastal waters of Lord Howe Island, which is located in the Tasman Sea, east of mainland Australia. Its preferred habitat includes rocky reefs and tide pools, making it a familiar sight within this unique marine ecosystem. This species thrives in the intertidal zone, the area between high and low tides, and also inhabits the shallow subtidal zone.
Taxonomy
The Norfolkia squamiceps is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Blenniiformes, and Family: Tripterygiidae. This classification places it within the diverse group of bony fishes, characterized by their three dorsal fins, which are elongated and narrow, a common trait of the Blenniiformes order. The Tripterygiidae family encompasses over 100 species, often found in shallow coastal waters.
Feeding
The Norfolkia squamiceps is a carnivore, feeding primarily on copepods, small invertebrates, and plankton. Its diet consists of organisms found in the benthic zone, the seafloor and its associated organisms, and the pelagic zone, the open water column.
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