Monkeyface prickleback
📖 Overview
Common inshore, in tide pools or shallow rocky areas, from the intertidal zone to 24 m depth. May remain out of water under rocks or seaweed . Feeds mainly on crustaceans and algae. Breathes air and can remain out of water for 15-35 hours if kept moist . Demersal spawners in nearshore habitats . Oviparous . Commonly caught by 'poke-poling', a method using a long bamboo pole with a very short wire leader and baited hook. Good eating.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Monkeyface prickleback is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Monkeyface prickleback is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous . Nests in crevices . A parent coils about the eggs .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; non-migratory ; depth range 0 - 24 m , usually 0 - 1 m . Subtropical; 46°N - 27°N, 126°W - 113°W central Baja California, Mexico; rare south of Point Conception, California, USA.
🌿 Ecology
crustaceans and algae
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🎣 Angling Guide
- medium-heavy 7ft spinning rod
- 30-50 lb braid
- fluorocarbon leader
- grass flats
- oyster bars
- marsh drains
- deeper channel edges
Use barbless hooks, minimise air exposure, and revive fish head-first in current before release.
⚠️ Slot limits protect breeding-size fish. Verify daily bag limits.
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apodichthys violaceus | Girard | 1854 | Synonym |
| Cebidichthys cristagalli | Ayres | 1855 | Synonym |
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 3 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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