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Sand Tilefish
Malacanthus plumieri
(Bloch, 1786)
Code
Summary
Saltwaterfish. Tilefishes. Body long, varies in colour from yellowish
white to light bluish gray. Head with light yellow and bluish markings.
Long dorsal and ventral fins. A crescent yellow tail, with a dark area
on the upper central part.
To be confused with
- Yellow Goatfish Mulloidichthys martinicus
Characteristics
Size: 30 to 45 cm, max 70 cm.
Colour: Varies in color from yellowish white to light bluish gray. Head with light yellow and bluish markings.
Shape: Body long, long dorsal and ventral fins. A crescent yellow tail, with a dark area on the upper central part.
Habitat environment and ecology
Inhabits coral reefs. Primarily a shallow-water benthic species found on
sand and rubble bottoms, but recorded down to 153 m. Builds mounds of
rubble and shell fragments near reefs and grass beds. Hover near the
entrance, undulating the long dorsal and anal fins. Enters its mound
head first when frightened. Feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates.
Distribution range
BES-eilanden: St. Eustatius.
Author
[Marion Haarsma, march 2016]
Literature
- DeLoach, N., & Humann, P. (2002). Reef Fish Identification -
Florida Caribbean Bahamas - 3th Edition. New World Publications, Inc.
Categorieën:
Soorten,
Vissen
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