Cheilodactylidae
The Cheilodactylidae are a family of marine ray-finned fish that are commonly known as “fingerfins” or “sea-perches”. They are a relatively small family, containing only 15 species in 4 genera. The fish are found in the coastal waters of the Southern Hemisphere, primarily off the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Characteristics
Fingerfins are generally small to medium-sized fish, with most species reaching lengths of 20 to 50 centimeters. They are characterized by their elongated, compressed bodies and their distinctive finger-like fins, particularly the dorsal and anal fins. They have a single, continuous dorsal fin that extends from the head to the tail, and the pelvic fins are located in a forward position, often reaching the chest.
The color of fingerfins varies depending on the species, but they are often adorned with vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, and blue. Some species, like the Cheilodactylus spectabilis (Redfinger), have striking red coloration, while others, like the Cheilodactylus zonalis (Banded fingerfin), exhibit a pattern of bands or stripes.
Environment
Fingerfins are primarily found in rocky reef environments, where they are adept at navigating the complex terrain. They are generally found in shallow water, often close to the shore, but some species are known to inhabit deeper waters. Fingerfins are carnivores, and their diet consists mainly of crustaceans, mollusks, and other small fish.
Genera
The Cheilodactylidae family contains four recognized genera:
- Cheilodactylus
- Nemadactylus
- Dactylophora
- Plagiogeneion