A marine predatory fish species belonging to the Synodontidae family, characterized by its elongated body and camouflage-like patterning found in tropical and subtropical marine ecosystems.
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coastal marine environments, typically found in rocky and sandy substrates at depths ranging from 1-100 meters, primarily in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, including regions near the Galapagos Islands and coastal Colombia
Ecological Role
Plays a significant role in marine food webs as a mid-level predator, controlling populations of smaller fish and serving as prey for larger marine predators
Morphology
SKIN COATMottled brown and tan coloration with irregular spots, providing excellent camouflage against rocky and sandy marine backgrounds
LIMBS WINGSStreamlined dorsal and pectoral fins enabling rapid directional changes and precise hunting maneuvers
HEAD SENSORYLarge mouth with sharp teeth, prominent eyes positioned laterally for enhanced peripheral vision and predatory capabilities
BODY STRUCTUREElongated, torpedo-shaped body with average length of 20-35 cm, designed for swift underwater movement and ambush hunting
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: D. ROSS ROBERTSON, ARTURO ANGULO, CAROLE C. BALDWIN, DIANE PITASSY, AMY DRISKELL, LEE WEIGT, IGNACIO J.F. NAVARRO
