Patchwork velvetfish (Cocotropus microps)

Scientific name: Cocotropus microps Johnson, 2004

Patchwork velvetfish (Cocotropus microps)

The Patchwork velvetfish (Cocotropus microps) is a marine fish of the family Aploactinidae. Native range: Southwest Pacific, eastern Australia.

Biology

Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 5; Vertebrae: 24. This species is characterized by the following: Dorsal XII, 7; anal II, 5; pectoral 10-11; pelvic I, 3; caudal 16-17; with all fin rays unbranched; vertebrae 24. Dorsal fin with anterior, middle and posterior portions notably elevated, first interspace moderately scalloped, second deeply notched; the dorsal membrane is connected posteriorly to the caudal peduncle; head, body and fins densely covered with scales, modified to form velvety prickles; a small fleshy extension on the anterior of the isthmus; frontal ridges parallel on interorbital; body and fins variously marked with pale or white blotches, or small irregular spots.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name
Cocotropus microps
Family
Aploactinidae (Velvetfishes)
Order
Scorpaeniformes (Scorpionfishes and Flatheads)
Class
Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length
3.9
Depth range
0–14 m (0–46 ft)
Environment
Marine; benthopelagic; depth range 0 - 14 m
Climate
Subtropical
Distribution
Southwest Pacific: eastern Australia.
Conservation status (IUCN)
Not Evaluated
Threat to humans
Harmless

Sources

Taxonomy, distribution and biology data: FishBase (Froese, R. and D. Pauly, eds.), licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

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