Scalyjaw koester
📖 Overview
Scalyjaw koester (Acanthistius joanae), first described by Heemstra, 2010 is a small fish in the family Anthiadidae (order Perciformes). Adults typically reach 14.00 cm in maximum length. It inhabits marine coastal and open-ocean environments. Recorded depth range: 23 to 140 metres. It occurs in Subtropical waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Data Deficient.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14 - 16; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 7; Vertebrae: 26. This species is characterized by the following: distinct ctenoid scales cover the interorbital, maxilla, infraorbitals, interopercle, dorsal 4 branchiostegal rays, gular area, isthmus, chest, belly and proximal two-thirds of pectoral fin; interorbital area is slightly convex; longest dorsal fin spine equal to or longer than peduncle depth; Caudal, anal, and pelvic fins are pale (fin rays mostly reddish orange in life); a large oval, blackish brown blotch (most prominent dark mark on the head) covers most of the opercle; 17-19 pectoral-fin rays .: fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Scalyjaw koester is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; pelagic-neritic; depth range 23 - 140 m . Subtropical South Africa.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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