Otopharynx Alpha

📖 Overview

Otopharynx Alpha (Otopharynx alpha), first described by Oliver, 2018 is a small fish in the family Cichlidae (order Cichliformes). Adults typically reach 14.10 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator.

🔬 Taxonomy

🐟 Physical Description

Dorsal spines (total): 17; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11 - 12; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9 - 10. Diagnosis: A medium-sized laterally spotted haplochromine separable from all previously described species of Otopharynx both by its unique melanin pattern and by its distinctive lower pharyngeal bone . The suprapectoral spot is rectangular, 2-2.5 scales high, longitudinally elongate, covering 7-8 consecutive scales starting with the seventh scale of the upper lateral line, extending vertically from just above the lateral midline to slightly above the upper lateral line; the supraanal and precaudal spots are conjoined, forming a continuous stripe, paler at its midlength in some specimens, from the level of the anal-fin origin to the base of the caudal fin; the lower pharyngeal bone is broadly triangular, somewhat heart-shaped, with numerous uniformly small, laterally compressed, crowded, bicuspid teeth . : short and / or deep.

🌀 Behaviour

Behavioural data for Otopharynx Alpha is currently being reviewed.

🦐 Diet

🥚 Reproduction

🌍 Habitat & Distribution

Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical

🌿 Ecology

📐 Morphometrics

🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance

📊 Population Risk & Fisheries

🦠 Common Diseases

The following diseases are known to affect Otopharynx Alpha.

🐠 Related Species

🔍 Similar Species

👥 Community & Contribute