Embiotocidae

The Embiotocidae, commonly known as surfperches, are a family of perciform fish found along the Pacific coast of North America. They are characterized by their elongate, compressed bodies, typically with a single dorsal fin, and a small mouth with a slightly protruding lower jaw. Most species are relatively small, ranging from 15 to 30 centimeters in length, though some can reach up to 60 centimeters. They are generally found in coastal waters, often near rocky shores or kelp forests. Common NamesSurfperches are known by various common names, including:* Surfperch* Perch* Seaperch* Kelp perch* Rock perch* Walleye perchCharacteristicsEmbiotocidae share several distinctive features:*Elongate, compressed bodies: Their body shape is streamlined and laterally flattened, adapted for swimming in coastal waters.*Single dorsal fin: They have a continuous dorsal fin, often with a slight notch or indentation separating the spinous and soft-rayed portions.*Small mouth with slightly protruding lower jaw: This jaw structure allows them to efficiently feed on a variety of small invertebrates and algae.*Varied color patterns: Embiotocidae exhibit a wide range of colors and patterns, often camouflaged to blend with their surroundings.*Live birth: This unique characteristic distinguishes them from most other fish families. Female surfperches give birth to live young after an internal gestation period.EnvironmentSurfperches inhabit the temperate waters of the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to Baja California. They are typically found in shallow coastal waters, often in rocky intertidal zones, kelp forests, and sandy beaches. Some species may venture into deeper waters, up to 200 meters. ReferencesFor more detailed information on Embiotocidae, consult the following references:* [FishBase](https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Family-Embiotocidae.html)* [California Academy of Sciences](https://www.calacademy.org/explore-science/fish/surfperches)* [The Marine Life Information Network](https://www.marlin.ac.uk/species/details/5838)