Monotaxis
Monotaxis is a genus of fish belonging to the family Carangidae, commonly known as jacks or trevallies. These fish are distinguished by their streamlined bodies, forked tails, and a single dorsal fin. The genus encompasses a small number of species, primarily inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region.
Common Names
Members of the genus Monotaxis are known by a variety of common names depending on the specific species. These include:
- Singlefin Jacks
- Slender Jacks
- Yellowtail Jacks
Characteristics
Monotaxis species share several defining characteristics:
- Elongated, fusiform body shape
- Single, continuous dorsal fin with a distinct anterior spine
- Forked caudal fin
- Small, protractile mouth
- Relatively large eyes
- Coloration often silvery or gray, with darker markings or stripes
- Size typically ranging from 20 to 60 cm in length
Environments
Monotaxis species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coastal waters
- Coral reefs
- Lagoons
- Inshore and offshore waters
They are typically pelagic fish, meaning they inhabit the open ocean, but can also be found in association with reefs and other structures. Some species are known to migrate, while others remain in relatively localized areas.
References
For further information on Monotaxis, please refer to the following resources: