Pacific Trumpetfish [Aulostomus chinensis]
Description
The Pacific Trumpetfish is native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, and is known for its elongated body and tubular snout, similar to its Atlantic counterpart. Its distinctive coloration varies from yellow to gray and brown, often with dark bands and spots. It inhabits clear-water reefs and lagoons, often hovering vertically among gorgonians or other vertical structures. It is a stealthy predator, often using larger organisms as a cover to approach its prey.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Seahorses and Pipefishes
Syngnathiformes
|
| Family |
Trumpetfishes
Aulostomidae
|
| Genus |
Trumpetfishes
Aulostomus
|