Spot-tail Anglerfish
Lophiocharon trisignatus
Anglerfishes have evolved a number of remarkable morphological features for ambushing prey. Their body shape, dermal flaps, and colouration provide excellent camouflage, with most species resembling coral rubble or sponges. Rather than actively pursuing prey, they lie in wait to ambush small fishes that are attracted by the motion of an illicium or 'lure', a modification of the first dorsal spine, which resembles a small invertebrate drifting in the water column. This species has variable colour from greenish-brown to reddish-orange but is easily distinguished from other anglerfishes by the characteristic rows of dark-edged transparent spots on the fan-shaped caudal fin.
Morphology
Deep-bodied and rounded in shape. The upturned, cavernous mouth, small eyes and ilicium (first dorsal spine that is modified into a 'lure' for attracting prey) are distinctive. The dermal flaps and appendages give this species the appearance of an encrusted rock or sponge. Maximum size to 18 cm.
Evolution
Belongs to the Order Lophiiformes, a highly specialised group of teleost fishes also known as anglerfishes. The family to which the Tail-spot Anglerfish belongs (Antennariidae) contains 47 currently recognised species worldwide, only 3 of which belong to the genus Lophiocharon.
Behaviour
The first dorsal spine is modified into a 'lure' (known as an ilicium) that is used to attract potential prey species (usually small fishes) within striking distance of the large mouth. Anglerfishes are not efficient swimmers, instead, they get around by shuffling along the bottom with the aid of large, 'feet-like' pectoral fins.
Method of reproduction
Sexual; the male broods an egg cluster that is attached to the side of the body.
Habitat
Marine
Inshore reef habitats from the intertidal zone down to 50 m (usually no deeper than 20 m). Also common around wharves.
Distribution
Occurs in tropical marine waters between the Philippines and Shark Bay on WA's central coast.
Life Cycle
Oviparous
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Lophiiformes |
| Family: | Antennariidae |
| Genus: | Lophiocharon |
| Species: | trisignatus |
| Name Published Year: | 1844 |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name Authorship: | Richardson |
| Commercial Impact: | None |
| Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/Lophiocharon-trisignatus
Accessed 14 Jun 2024
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