The Black Stripe Butterfish, also known as Butterfish, Striped Whiptail, Western Australian Butterfish, Western Threadfin Bream, or Western Whiptail, is a species of marine fish scientifically classified as Pentapodus vitta. This fish is notable for its distinct black stripe running along its body, making it easily identifiable.
Description & Characteristics
The Pentapodus vitta is a moderately sized fish, reaching a maximum length of 26.0 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, with a characteristic black stripe extending from the snout to the tail. The fish has a silvery-white to light brown coloration, which blends with its surroundings.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Pentapodus vitta is a common inhabitant of coastal waters, typically found in rocky reefs and sandy bottoms. They are often seen in shallow waters near the shore but can also be found in deeper waters, with a depth range extending to 100 meters. The species is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the Western Australian waters. They are considered a common species in the marine zones of Australia, making their presence notable in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The Pentapodus vitta belongs to the family Nemipteridae, commonly known as threadfin breams. This family falls under the order Eupercaria incertae sedis, which encompasses a wide array of fish species, and further belongs to the Class Teleostei, encompassing most of the bony fishes.
Feeding
The Pentapodus vitta primarily feeds on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates. This dietary preference positions them as important components of the marine food web.
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