Snakelet
📖 Overview
Snakelet (Halidesmus scapularis) is a ray-finned fish of the family Pseudochromidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 20 cm. It occurs at depths between 0 and 16 metres. With a trophic level of 3.3, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 1; Dorsal soft rays (total): 58 - 63; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 48 - 52; Vertebrae: 66 - 69. Light to dark brown with color, sometimes with dusky crossbars . Middle lateral line joining with the dorsal lateral line just above the pectoral fin base; midline of parietal canal with a single pore; dark spot above pectoral fin . Pelvic fin rarely absent; dorsal and anal fin membranes united only basally to caudal fin .: eel-like; Cross section: circular.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Snakelet is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 0 - 16 m. Subtropical; 31°S - 35°S Southeast Atlantic: False Bay, Cape Province to Coffee Bay, Transkei in southeastern Africa.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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