The Slender Silver-biddy, Largebodied Silverbiddy, Slender-bodied, Silver-biddy, Slender Silverbiddy, Oblong Pursemouth, scientifically known as Gerres oblongus, is a fish species belonging to the family Gerreidae. This fish is widely distributed across various marine zones, showcasing its adaptability to different aquatic environments.
Description & Characteristics
The Gerres oblongus is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 30.0 cm. It exhibits a slender, elongated body shape, hence its common name, “Slender Silver-biddy.” This fish is characterized by its silver-grey coloration, often with a slightly darker dorsal area. Its mouth is slightly protractile, giving it a “purse-mouth” appearance, another source for its common name.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Slender Silver-biddy, Largebodied Silverbiddy, Slender-bodied, Silver-biddy, Slender Silverbiddy, Oblong Pursemouth, Gerres oblongus, demonstrates its adaptability by inhabiting a wide range of environments. This includes brackish water, freshwater, and seawater, making it a versatile species capable of thriving in various salinity levels. The depth range of this species falls between 0.0 and 50.0 meters, indicating its presence in both shallow coastal areas and slightly deeper waters. This distribution reflects its ability to adjust to different water conditions and depths.
Taxonomy
The species Gerres oblongus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Gerreidae. This classification highlights its place within the broad group of bony fishes, specifically within the “incertae sedis” order, a category that includes species with uncertain taxonomic placement. Its family, Gerreidae, is commonly known as the “silver-biddy” or “whiptail” family, reflecting the shared characteristics of its members.
Feeding
The Slender Silver-biddy, Largebodied Silverbiddy, Slender-bodied, Silver-biddy, Slender Silverbiddy, Oblong Pursemouth, Gerres oblongus, exhibits omnivorous feeding habits. Its diet comprises a diverse array of organisms, including crustaceans, clams, snails, worms, and insects like mosquito larvae. It also feeds on detritus, demonstrating its ability to utilize organic debris. This varied diet contributes to its adaptability and success in various environments.
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