Whitecheek lanternshark
📖 Overview
Whitecheek lanternshark (Etmopterus alphus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Etmopteridae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in pelagic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 33.6 cm. It occurs at depths between 472 and 792 metres. With a trophic level of 4.1, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Vertebrae: 84 - 90. This relatively small, slender species of linear-denticled Etmopterus can be separated from its closest congeners within the E. lucifer clade by a combination of characteristics: length of its anterior flank markings being much shorter than its posterior branch; black flank markings sharply demarcated by surrounding lighter to whitish lateral markings; prominent white spot on each cheek; a single white stripe extending the length of the midback; 2 parallel rows of prominent dark pores extending between pectoral and pelvic fins; its closest geographic congener E. sculptus has its anterior branch longer than its posterior branch, with a thinner posterior flank marking, 0.2-0.4% (vs. 0.6-0.9% TL in E. alphus), a higher spiral valve count 8-9 (vs. 5-7 in E. alphus); it differs from its closest morphological congener, the Australasian E. molleri by its shorter anterior (6.0-10.6% vs. 8.0-11.5% TL) and posterior (9.3-12.7% vs. 11.0-15.4% TL) flank-marking branches, biogeography and genetics .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Whitecheek lanternshark is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Whitecheek lanternshark is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Whitecheek lanternshark is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; pelagic-oceanic; depth range 472 - 792 m . Subtropical; 18°S - 34°S, 37°E - 45°E Indian Ocean: Mozambique.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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