Dermatolepis
Dermatolepis is a genus of fish in the family Malacanthidae, commonly known as tilefishes. Tilefishes are characterized by their compressed, often colorful bodies and their habit of inhabiting rocky reefs and ledges. The genus currently consists of eight recognized species, all of which are found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Oceans.
Common Names
Common names for fish belonging to the genus Dermatolepis include tilefish, smooth tilefish, and spotted tilefish. These names often reflect the distinctive, tile-like appearance of the fish's scales.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Dermatolepis share several key characteristics:
- Compressed body shape: They have a laterally flattened, or compressed, body, giving them a distinctive, almost rectangular shape.
- Large scales: Tilefish possess large, heavy scales that often overlap like tiles, hence their common name.
- Small mouth: They have a small mouth located at the tip of the snout.
- Dorsal fin: The dorsal fin is continuous, with a long base and a single spine.
- Anal fin: The anal fin is also continuous, with a long base and two spines.
- Coloration: Tilefish are often strikingly colored, with a variety of patterns including spots, stripes, and blotches.
Environments
Dermatolepis species are typically found in rocky and coral reef habitats. They prefer areas with crevices, ledges, and caves where they can find shelter and ambush prey. Some species may also be found in deeper waters, down to depths of several hundred meters.
References
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