Alepes
Alepes is a genus of fishes belonging to the family Carangidae, commonly known as jacks or trevallies. These fishes are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are characterized by their streamlined bodies, forked tails, and distinctive dentition. Alepes species are important components of marine ecosystems, playing a role in food webs and supporting fisheries.
Common Names
Species within the genus Alepes are commonly referred to as "jacks" or "trevallies," with specific names often varying by region. Some examples include:
- Shortfin scad (Alepes djedaba)
- Indian scad (Alepes indica)
- Goldstripe scad (Alepes melanoptera)
Characteristics
Alepes species share several defining characteristics:
- Body shape: Streamlined, fusiform (torpedo-shaped) body.
- Fins: Two dorsal fins, the first being spiny and the second soft-rayed. Anal fin is similar to the second dorsal fin. Forked tail.
- Mouth: Large, protractile mouth with sharp teeth.
- Scales: Small, cycloid (smooth) scales cover the body.
Environments
Alepes species are typically found in coastal waters, including estuaries, bays, and reefs. They are often found in schools and prefer areas with moderate to high salinity. Their distribution ranges from the Indo-Pacific region to the western Atlantic.
References
For further information on the genus Alepes, please refer to these resources: