The Short-pouch Pygmy Pipehorse (Acentronura breviperula) is a captivating marine fish belonging to the Syngnathidae family. This species is distinguished by its diminutive size and unique physical characteristics, making it an intriguing subject of study for marine biologists and enthusiasts alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Acentronura breviperula is a small, slender fish, reaching a maximum size of 5.0 cm. Its body is characterized by a long snout and a distinctive pouch located on the underside of its abdomen. This pouch is relatively short compared to other species within the genus Acentronura, giving the fish its common name. The Short-pouch Pygmy Pipehorse exhibits a subtle coloration, often blending seamlessly with its surroundings to evade potential predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Acentronura breviperula is primarily found in the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. This species favors neritic marine environments, where it can be observed in coral reefs and rocky outcrops. Their depth range typically falls between 1.0 and 47.0 meters.
Taxonomy
The Acentronura breviperula species is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Syngnathiformes, and Family: Syngnathidae. This categorization highlights its evolutionary relationships to other fish species and places it within the broader context of marine biodiversity.
Feeding
The diet of the Acentronura breviperula primarily consists of small invertebrates, including copepods, Daphnia salina, Mysis, and zooplankton. These organisms are readily available within the fish’s neritic habitat, allowing them to easily forage and maintain their energy levels.
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