Valdivia black dragon fish
📖 Overview
Valdivia black dragon fish (Melanostomias valdiviae) is a ray-finned fish of the family Stomiidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in deep-water environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 24.1 cm. It occurs at depths between 40 and 1600 metres. With a trophic level of 4.2, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12 - 16; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 17 - 19. Body elongate and moderately slender. Short, blunt and non-protrusible snout. Short chin barbel with short terminal expanded section. Black in color. Barbel is black, tip of barbel unpigmented .: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Valdivia black dragon fish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; bathypelagic; depth range 40 - 1600 m . Deep-water; 41°N - 49°S, 98°W - 154°W west of South Africa.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melanostomias heteropogon | Regan & Trewavas | 1930 | Synonym |
| Melanostomias melanocaulus | Regan & Trewavas | 1930 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 22 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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