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Pristigenys alta, commonly known as the Catalufa or Short Bigeye, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Priacanthidae, the bigeyes. It is characterized by its deep, compressed body, large eyes, and reddish coloration. This species is primarily nocturnal, inhabiting rocky reefs and wrecks in subtropical and tropical waters.
Caratteristiche fisiche
- Forma del corpo
- compressed
- Colorazione
- Predominantly reddish to orange-red, often with silvery or whitish blotches or bars, especially when young. Fins are typically reddish. The large eyes are often iridescent red.
- Tipo di squame
- ctenoid
- Posizione della bocca
- superior
- Caratteristiche distintive
- Extremely large eyes, characteristic of the family Priacanthidae, adapted for low-light conditions., Deep, highly compressed body, giving it a disc-like appearance., Large, oblique mouth with small, villiform teeth., Rough, ctenoid scales covering the body and head., A prominent, sharp spine at the angle of the preopercle.
- Pinna dorsale
- Single dorsal fin with 10 spines and 10-11 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.
- Pinna caudale
- Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.
- Pinna pettorale
- Relatively small pectoral fins.
- Pinne distintive
- Pelvic fins are large, originating anterior to the pectoral fin base, and are often dusky or reddish.
Consigli per l'identificazione
Body Depth
The body is notably deep, with its depth often exceeding 40% of its standard length, giving it a very compressed, almost disc-like profile.
Eye Size
The eyes are exceptionally large, a defining characteristic of the Priacanthidae family, and are typically larger than the snout length.
Coloration
The overall reddish to orange-red coloration is a key identifier, though it can vary in intensity. Juveniles may have more pronounced banding.
Preopercular Spine
Presence of a strong, sharp spine at the lower angle of the preopercle (gill cover).
Habitat
- Tipo di acqua
- saltwater
- Profondità
- Typically found at depths ranging from 10 to 200 meters (33 to 656 feet), though occasionally shallower or deeper.
- Ambiente
- Associated with rocky reefs, coral reefs, wrecks, and other hard-bottom structures. Prefers areas with caves, crevices, and overhangs for shelter during the day. Primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to feed.
- Areale geografico
- Western Atlantic Ocean, from Nova Scotia, Canada, south to Florida, Bermuda, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea, extending to Brazil. Also found in the Eastern Atlantic, including the Azores and Madeira.
Informazioni sull'acquario
- Livello di cura: advanced
- Temperamento: semi-aggressive
- Dieta: carnivore
- Dimensione minima della vasca: 180 gallons
- Temperatura: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- Livello di pH: 8.1-8.4
- Durezza: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibilità: Best kept in a species-specific tank or with other large, robust, non-aggressive fish. Avoid small fish or invertebrates as they may be prey.
- Requisiti speciali: Requires ample hiding places, subdued lighting, and a diet of meaty foods. Due to its nocturnal nature, it may be shy during the day. Not commonly available in the aquarium trade due to its size and specific needs.
Informazioni in natura
- Stato di conservazione: least concern
- Stagionalità: No specific seasonal patterns for commercial harvest; generally available year-round in its range.
- Prezzo di mercato: Low to moderate, primarily in local markets
- Importanza commerciale: low
- Sapore: Mild, slightly sweet
- Consistenza: Flaky, firm white flesh
- Metodi di cottura: Baked, Fried, Grilled, Steamed
- Valore nutrizionale: Good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Fatti chiave
Nocturnal Hunterbehavior
The Catalufa is primarily active at night, using its large eyes to hunt for crustaceans and small fish in low-light conditions.
Deep-Bodied Designinteresting
Its exceptionally deep and compressed body is a distinctive feature, setting it apart from many other bigeye species.
Habitat Preferencebehavior
This species strongly associates with complex reef structures, wrecks, and rocky outcrops, utilizing them for shelter during the day.
Wide Distributionamazing
Pristigenys alta has a broad geographic range across the Western and Eastern Atlantic, indicating its adaptability to various subtropical and tropical marine environments.
Informazioni di sicurezza
Maneggiare con cura- Livello di sicurezza: caution
- Velenoso: No
- Commestibilità: edible
- Note sul maneggio: While not venomous, the dorsal and anal fin spines are sharp and can inflict painful punctures. Handle with care, especially when de-hooking. The preopercular spine is also sharp.
Specie simili
Glasseye Snapper
Priacanthus cruentatus
Pristigenys alta has a much deeper body and generally larger eyes relative to its head size. Priacanthus cruentatus typically has a more elongated body and often exhibits more distinct vertical banding.
Bigeye
Priacanthus arenatus
Pristigenys alta has a significantly deeper body and a more rounded profile compared to Priacanthus arenatus, which is more fusiform. The caudal fin of P. alta is truncate to slightly emarginate, while P. arenatus often has a more deeply forked caudal fin.
Classificazione scientifica
- Regno
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Classe
- Actinopterygii
- Ordine
- Perciformes
- Famiglia
- Priacanthidae
- Genere
- Pristigenys
- Specie
- Pristigenys alta
Esplora Catalufa
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