Samla
Samla is a genus of marine fish belonging to the family Serranidae, commonly known as groupers. These fish are known for their distinctive features, including their robust bodies, large mouths, and prominent canine teeth. Samla species inhabit various marine environments, predominantly coral reefs and rocky outcrops in the Indo-Pacific region.
Characteristics
Samla species are characterized by their:
- Robust body shape: Typically elongated and compressed laterally.
- Large mouth: With prominent canine teeth.
- Scales: Ctenoid scales, meaning they have small, comb-like teeth.
- Dorsal fin: Two distinct dorsal fins, the first being spiny and the second soft-rayed.
- Anal fin: Similar to the second dorsal fin, with soft rays.
- Coloration: Varied depending on the species, ranging from brown and grey to bright orange and yellow.
Environments
Samla species are primarily found in:
- Coral reefs: Favoring areas with high coral cover and abundant prey.
- Rocky outcrops: Often found near rocky reefs and drop-offs.
- Shallow to moderate depths: Typically found at depths between 10 and 100 meters.
Common Names
Common names for Samla species include:
- Giant grouper
- Blacktip grouper
- Brown-marbled grouper
References
For more detailed information on Samla, refer to the following sources: