The Smallscale Grubfish – Parapercis robinsoni is a species of fish belonging to the family Pinguipedidae. This relatively small fish is found in various marine ecosystems throughout its range.
Description & Characteristics
The Smallscale Grubfish – Parapercis robinsoni is a relatively small fish, with a maximum size of 30.0 cm. Its body is generally elongate and compressed laterally, and it is characterized by a distinctive coloration that varies between individuals. The species is known for its unique scalation, which is quite small and relatively smooth to the touch.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Smallscale Grubfish – Parapercis robinsoni is found in depths ranging from 6.0 meters to 55.0 meters. It is primarily an inhabitant of the demersal zone, which refers to the bottom layer of the ocean, meaning it is often found near the seabed. This species is most prevalent in the neritic zone, the area of the ocean that extends from the coastline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The Smallscale Grubfish – Parapercis robinsoni belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Pinguipedidae. The Teleostei class encompasses a vast array of bony fishes, while the Perciformes order, commonly known as the perch-like fishes, represents one of the most diverse orders within the class. The Pinguipedidae family, or the sandperches, consists of fishes typically characterized by their slender bodies and relatively small scales.
Feeding
The Smallscale Grubfish – Parapercis robinsoni is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on a variety of smaller invertebrates and fishes. Its diet includes organisms like brine shrimps, mysis shrimp, and small fish. The Smallscale Grubfish is an opportunistic feeder and will readily consume any suitable prey that it encounters within its habitat.
Image References