Incan cusk-eel
📖 Overview
Incan cusk-eel (Lepophidium inca) is a ray-finned fish of the family Ophidiidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 19.6 cm. It occurs at depths between 118 and 320 metres. With a trophic level of 3.6, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal soft rays (total): 133 - 141; Anal soft rays: 112 - 121; Vertebrae: 74 - 77. This species have the following characteristics: pyloric caeca usually 7-8 in 1 or 2 whorls, typically 6+2; usually 3 rudimentary gill rakers on the upper arm of the first arch, 4-5 developed rakers on lower arm, usually 2-3 rudimentary rakers anteriorly on the lower arm; total gill rakers 9-13; dorsal-fin origin between neural spines 3-4; head and body uniformly dusky; pectoral fins clear; dorsal and anal fins clear with a dark edge, most developed in the anal fin; posterior part of the roof of the mouth, upper pharyngeal region, and gill bars are blackish; esophagus, caeca, and anterior part of the intestine are blackish .: eel-like; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Incan cusk-eel is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Incan cusk-eel is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Incan cusk-eel is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 118 - 320 m . Tropical; 3°S - 7°S, 83°W - 80°W
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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