Reticulate triangular batfish
📖 Overview
Reticulate triangular batfish (Malthopsis retifera) is a ray-finned fish of the family Ogcocephalidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in deep-water environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 6 cm. It occurs at depths between 375 and 420 metres. With a trophic level of 3.2, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal soft rays (total): 4 - 5. This species differs from its congeners in having a reticulate color pattern on dorsal surface of disk, 5 pairs of dark spots on disk margin and lateral sides of tail; rostrum is directed to front; bucklers on dorsal surface are relatively pointed, absence of small tubercles or bucklers between principal bucklers; rounded and flat bucklers on belly; anal fin reaching caudal fin base when laid back; 6 lateral line scales in subopercular series and 7 or 8 in tail series; 11-13 (usually 12) pectoral fin rays and 4 or 5 (usually 5) dorsal fin rays .: other (see remarks); Cross section: flattened.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Reticulate triangular batfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; bathydemersal; depth range 375 - 420 m . Deep-water Indian Ocean: off Somalia, Socotra.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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