Lumpenus sagitta, also known as the “spear sand eel,” is a species of fish belonging to the family Stichaeidae. It is a relatively small fish, typically reaching a maximum size of 51.0 cm.
Description & Characteristics
Lumpenus sagitta possesses a slender, eel-like body with a slightly compressed shape. Its head is small and pointed, with a slightly upturned mouth. The eyes are relatively large and located on the sides of the head. The body is covered in small, overlapping scales that are difficult to see. The dorsal fin is long and continuous, extending from the head to the tail. The anal fin is also long and located on the ventral side of the body. The pectoral fins are small and rounded, while the pelvic fins are absent.
Habitat and Occurrence
Lumpenus sagitta exhibits a broad depth range, inhabiting waters from the surface to a depth of 425.0 meters. This species is commonly found in marine zones ranging from the intertidal to the bathyal zone. They are often encountered on sandy or muddy bottoms, as well as in rocky areas. The presence of Lumpenus sagitta indicates a healthy and diverse marine ecosystem, contributing to the delicate balance of these environments.
Taxonomy
The species Lumpenus sagitta belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Stichaeidae. The Teleostei class comprises a diverse group of bony fishes characterized by their advanced skeletal structure. Within the Perciformes order, Lumpenus sagitta falls into the family Stichaeidae, which includes a variety of elongated, often eel-like fishes with a primarily benthic lifestyle.
Feeding
Lumpenus sagitta is a carnivorous fish, feeding primarily on smaller invertebrates such as crustaceans, polychaetes, and other small fish. Its diet is crucial in maintaining the stability of its respective ecosystems, as it helps to regulate the populations of its prey species.
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