The Speckled Tonguesole, Spotted Tongue-sole, Spotted Tongue Sole, scientifically known as Cynoglossus puncticeps, is a fascinating flatfish species found in various marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
The Cynoglossus puncticeps is characterized by its elongated, slender body, reaching a maximum size of 35.0 cm. Its dorsal and anal fins are long and continuous, extending almost the entire length of its body. This species is known for its distinct speckled pattern, with numerous small, dark spots scattered across its dorsal surface. This coloration provides excellent camouflage, allowing the fish to blend seamlessly with the seabed.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Cynoglossus puncticeps is an adaptable species, found in a range of depths, from the shallow waters of 1.0 meters to the depths of 140.0 meters. It can be encountered in both coastal and offshore areas, inhabiting a variety of marine zones, including the epipelagic (surface layer), mesopelagic (midwater), and bathypelagic (deep water) zones.
Taxonomy
The species Cynoglossus puncticeps belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Pleuronectiformes, and Family: Cynoglossidae. The Teleostei is the largest group of ray-finned fishes, distinguished by their bony skeletons and advanced features. The Pleuronectiformes, or flatfishes, are characterized by their flattened bodies and laterally compressed forms, with both eyes situated on one side of the head. The family Cynoglossidae, commonly known as tongue soles, is a diverse group of flatfish, recognized by their elongated bodies, narrow mouths, and often, their tendency to bury themselves in the seabed.
Feeding
The Cynoglossus puncticeps is a carnivorous species, with a diet that consists primarily of benthic invertebrates. Its feeding habits include consuming crustacean larvae, crustaceans, echinoderm larvae, small fish, fish larvae, krill, mysis, shrimps, worms, and zoobenthos. This dietary versatility allows the Cynoglossus puncticeps to thrive in various environments, taking advantage of the available prey resources.
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