Prickle triangular batfish
📖 Overview
Prickle triangular batfish (Malthopsis provocator) is a ray-finned fish of the family Ogcocephalidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters. This species can reach a maximum total length of 6.2 cm. It occurs at depths between 200 and 475 metres. With a trophic level of 3.2, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal soft rays (total): 5 - 6. This species is distinguished by the following set of characters: D 5-6; pectoral-fin rays 11-13; principal bucklers are small and flattened; interspaces fully covered by small bucklers and spinules; posterior portion of skull with 5-6 irregular rows of medium-sized bucklers; rostrum pointed, usually directed more upward than forward; subopercular buckler is weak, strongly reduced or bearing few spinelets at its tip; ventral surface (including belly and thoracic region) covered with minute prickles between mid-sized bucklers; orbit large, 11.6%-13.6% SL; interorbital space narrow, 4.7%-7.5% SL; rostrum short, 6.7%-10.6% SL; anal fin not reaching caudal-fin base when appressed .Cross section: flattened.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Prickle triangular batfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; bathydemersal; depth range 200 - 475 m , usually 300 - ? m . Subtropical
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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