Girella
Girella is a genus of fish belonging to the family Kyphosidae, commonly known as “wrasses” or “sea chubs.” This genus comprises approximately 10 species, all of which are found in the coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean, primarily off the shores of Australia, Japan, and California.
Characteristics
Girella species are characterized by their compressed, deep bodies, with a dorsal fin extending almost the entire length of their back. They possess a single, long dorsal fin with a prominent notch separating the spiny and soft-rayed sections. Their mouths are small and terminal, typically equipped with strong, molar-like teeth, well-suited for crushing and grinding their food. The color patterns of Girella species are diverse, often exhibiting vibrant hues of blue, green, and yellow, occasionally with darker markings or stripes.
Environments
Girella fish inhabit various marine environments, typically found in rocky reefs, kelp forests, and inshore waters. They are generally demersal, meaning they live on or near the bottom. Girella species prefer areas with abundant algae and other marine vegetation, which form the core of their diet.
Species
The genus Girella encompasses the following species:
- Girella abbreviata
- Girella albostriata
- Girella altavela
- Girella carunculata
- Girella cyanea
- Girella elevata
- Girella nigricans
- Girella punctata
- Girella simplex
- Girella tricuspidata
References
For more information on Girella, refer to these reliable sources: