Aulorhynchus
Aulorhynchus is a genus of marine fish belonging to the family Aulorhynchidae, commonly known as the trumpetfishes. These fish are characterized by their elongated, tubular snouts, which they use to suck up small crustaceans and other invertebrates. They are found in coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean, primarily along the western coast of North America.
Common Names
Members of the genus Aulorhynchus are commonly known as:
- Trumpetfish
- Pipefish
- Snipefish
Characteristics
Aulorhynchus species are slender, elongated fish with a distinctive trumpet-shaped snout. Their bodies are covered in bony plates, and they lack pelvic fins. They possess a dorsal fin that runs almost the entire length of their back. Their eyes are located on the top of their head, giving them a unique upward gaze. They can range in size from a few inches to over a foot in length.
Environments
Aulorhynchus species inhabit a variety of coastal environments, including rocky reefs, kelp forests, and sandy bottoms. They are typically found in shallow waters, but some species can dive to depths of over 100 meters.
Species
There are two recognized species in the genus Aulorhynchus:
- Aulorhynchus flavidus (Pacific trumpetfish)
- Aulorhynchus psittacula (Green trumpetfish)
References
For more information on Aulorhynchus, refer to the following resources: