The Slender Grouper, Slender Rockcod, Whitelined Cod, White-lined Grouper, White-lined Rockcod, White-lined Rock-cod, Whiteline Group, scientifically known as Anyperodon leucogrammicus, is a distinctive fish species inhabiting the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It’s recognized for its elongated body shape and striking color pattern, making it a captivating sight for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Anyperodon leucogrammicus is characterized by its slender, elongated body, which can reach a maximum size of 65.0 cm. Its most prominent feature is the distinctive white stripe that runs along its lateral line, giving rise to its common names. The body is typically light brown to grayish in color, with a network of dark brown or black spots and blotches. The head is relatively large, with a wide mouth equipped with sharp, pointed teeth, reflecting its predatory nature.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Anyperodon leucogrammicus is a common inhabitant of coral reefs, preferring seaward facing reefs and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific region. It is predominantly found in the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, 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 means it thrives in the neritic zone, the area of the ocean extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The Anyperodon leucogrammicus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This classification places it among the bony fishes, a diverse group characterized by their hard skeletons. Within the Perciformes, the Anyperodon leucogrammicus is further classified as a Serranid, a family that includes groupers, sea basses, and other related species.
Feeding
The Anyperodon leucogrammicus is a carnivore, primarily feeding on a variety of marine organisms. Its diet consists of coralfish of all kinds, crustaceans such as shrimps, and smaller fishes. Its predatory nature is evident in its sharp teeth and hunting strategy, which involves ambushing prey in its preferred habitat.
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