Blackear cusk-eel
📖 Overview
Blackear cusk-eel (Lepophidium cultratum) is a ray-finned fish of the family Ophidiidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters. This species can reach a maximum total length of 30.8 cm. It occurs at depths between 91 and 329 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
Dorsal soft rays (total): 128 - 137; Anal soft rays: 105 - 112; Vertebrae: 70 - 74. This species is characterized by the following: head and body without pattern; differs L. crossotum, L. kallion, and L. wileyi in lacking a fringed snout; no large spot in the dorsal fin; lacks the distally expanded anterior rib or haltere (?) in males .: eel-like; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Blackear cusk-eel is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; benthopelagic; depth range 91 - 329 m . Tropical; 18°N - 5°N, 85°W - 50°W
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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