Hydrolagus Alphus
📖 Overview
Hydrolagus Alphus (Hydrolagus alphus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Chimaeridae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters. This species can reach a maximum total length of 41.9 cm. It occurs at depths between 600 and 900 metres. With a trophic level of 3.7, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Assigned to the genus Hydrolagus based upon the absence of an anal fin. Hydrolagus alphus is distinguished by being medium in size (average PCL 321 mm) and uniform dark brown in color with a distinct white spot (4%-6% BDL) on the lateral side above the pectoral fins. Paired fins with bluish hue and white margins. The dorsal spine longer than triangular shaped first dorsal fin and extends beyond the origin of the second dorsal fin when depressed. Eyes large (40.8–44.5% HDL) and pectoral fins reaching to or beyond insertion of pelvic fins when depressed. Pelvic claspers small, not extending beyond distal edge of pelvic fin, and divided distally for one half their length with slender fleshy denticulate tips. The base of second dorsal fin is long, deeply depressed and light colored in the center, anterior and posterior regions dark, considerably greater in height than the white middle region .: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Hydrolagus Alphus is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; bathydemersal; depth range 600 - 900 m . Tropical Central Pacific: Galapagos Islands.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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