Mahia whiptail (Coelorinchus matamua) is a ray-finned fish of the family Macrouridae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in deep-water environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 65 cm. It occurs at depths between 450 and 1000 metres. With a trophic level of 3.5, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms.
Dorsal spines (total): 2; Dorsal soft rays (total): 134 - 135; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 110. Head large; the eyes also large; the snout blunt, its anterolateral margin incompletely supported by bone. Head ridges with modified thickened scales but not specially spiny; the suborbital ridge well defined. The underside of the head entirely scaled except for the lips and the gill membranes. Light organ a small globular gland adjacent to the anus, not visible externally. Gray to grayish pink, with a conspicuous dark blue band around the abdominal area; the fins and gill membranes blackish .: elongated; Cross section: circular.
Behavioural data for Mahia whiptail is currently being reviewed.
Diet information for Mahia whiptail is currently being compiled.
Reproduction data for Mahia whiptail is currently being compiled.
Marine; bathydemersal; non-migratory; depth range 450 - 1000 m . Deep-water; - 40°S Southeast Atlantic: South Africa.
fishes (myctophids), and crabs, among other items (Ref
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