The Speckled Shrimpfish, Aeoliscus punctulatus, is a fascinating and unique fish species known for its slender, elongated body and distinctive markings. This fish is a member of the Centriscidae family, also known as the shrimpfishes, and is found in a variety of marine environments across the globe.
Description & Characteristics
Aeoliscus punctulatus is readily identified by its elongated, compressed body, which can reach a maximum size of 15.0 cm. Its body is covered in numerous small, dark spots, giving it the “speckled” appearance that is reflected in its common name. The Speckled Shrimpfish has a long snout with a small, terminal mouth. Its dorsal fin extends the length of its back, and it possesses a long anal fin. Its color can range from pale yellow to orange, and it is often adorned with blue lines along its body.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Speckled Shrimpfish is a common inhabitant of tropical and subtropical waters around the world. Aeoliscus punctulatus is typically found in shallow, coastal waters, particularly in seagrass beds, coral reefs, and rocky areas. Its preferred depth range lies between 1 and 30 meters, making it a resident of the epipelagic zone, the sunlit upper layer of the ocean. The Speckled Shrimpfish is often observed amongst seaweed and seagrass, using its long snout to probe for food and hide from predators.
Taxonomy
The Speckled Shrimpfish, Aeoliscus punctulatus, belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Syngnathiformes, and Family: Centriscidae. Teleostei is the largest order of ray-finned fishes, containing over 20,000 species. Syngnathiformes is an order of fishes known for their elongated bodies and lack of pelvic fins, which includes pipefishes, seahorses, and the shrimpfishes. The Centriscidae family, encompassing the shrimpfishes, consists of 11 species known for their distinctive compressed bodies and long snouts.
Feeding
Aeoliscus punctulatus is a carnivorous fish that feeds primarily on small invertebrates, including zooplankton, crustaceans, and worms. Its long snout allows it to effectively probe and extract prey from crevices and amongst seagrass. The Speckled Shrimpfish plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem as a predator of small invertebrates, contributing to the balance of its habitat.
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