Swordspine gurnard
📖 Overview
Swordspine gurnard (Pterygotrigla hoplites) is a ray-finned fish of the family Triglidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in deep-water environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 10.8 cm. It occurs at depths between 265 and 512 metres. With a trophic level of 3.5, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 8 - 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12; Anal soft rays: 11 - 12; Vertebrae: 27. This species is distinguished by the following characters: absence of antrorse AIO spine; AIO long and slender (30% HL); pectoral fin long extending well beyond anal fin origin (53-54% SL); eye small (11-15% SL); pterygiophores exposed along base of D1 as large plates (excluding one in advance of first D1 spine) and D2 rays have small spines at ray bases that are directed anteriorly .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Swordspine gurnard is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; bathydemersal; depth range 265 - 512 m . Deep-water West Pacific: Philippines, Arafura Sea southward to Rowley Shoals, Western Australian Shelf.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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