Polka dot waspfish
📖 Overview
Polka dot waspfish (Ocosia zaspilota) is a ray-finned fish of the family Tetrarogidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 7 cm. It occurs at depths between 192 and 247 metres. With a trophic level of 3.2, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Venomous.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 15; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 5 - 6; Vertebrae: 28. No spines on the lateral surface of the lachrymal nor on the lateral surface of the first suborbital bone . Second and third dorsal spines very elongate in larger specimens. Body with large irregular dark brown spots.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Polka dot waspfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 192 - 247 m . Tropical Central Pacific: Philippines.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
⚠️ Venom Profile
- immediate intense pain
- swelling
- erythema
- occasional nausea and weakness
Analgesia; wound care; tetanus prophylaxis; severe cases may require monitoring for systemic effects.
References: Compiled from Bhide (2018), Halstead et al. (1988) and family-specific envenomation literature
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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