The Synodontidae, also known as the lizard fish, is a benthic (bottom-dwelling) marine and estuarine bony fish belonging to the aulopiform order.
They are present in tropical and subtropical seas all around the world. Read on to learn more about this interesting sea creature.
Quick Facts
- The lizardfish has teeth that line its tongue.
- It resides in shallow ocean water
- They attain a length of approximately 20-24 inches.
- Lizard Fish hide beneath the sand on shallow beaches
Lizard Fish: Appearance
Lizards are quite common throughout the world, and lizarid species are prominent aquarium pets. Lizards make up a major group of the animal kingdom. They have lizard-like heads on top with tiny eyes and big snouts that resemble those of frogs. Some species can grow to be as long as 60 cm (24 in).
The rear fin is positioned in the middle of the back and is complemented by a tiny adipose fin that is closer to the tail. They have mouths full of sharp teeth, even on the tongue.
The bodies of these fish are a mix of grey, white, and black, with dark splotches on their heads. This coloration helps them blend into the sea floor, which is usually sandy. They have a second adipose fin near their tail.
Habitat
Lizardfish live as low as 30 m (100 ft) deep. Even the deepest-dwelling varieties of lizard fish dwell in waters no deeper than 400 m (1,300 ft). Harpadontinae species live in brackish estuaries. They like sandy surroundings and have colors that help them blend into such settings.
Diet
They are meat-eaters. They eat smaller fish that are readily caught with the lizardfish’s many teeth.
Reproduction
The lizardfish’s reproductive patterns are poorly known. However, the darker splotches on the underside of lizardfish larvae, which can be seen via their translucent skin, are distinctive.
Threats
Lizard fish are not a primary food source or a target of fisheries. However, as all marine creatures are threatened by climate change, they too are in danger. This includes alterations in water temperature, the destruction of habitat, the loss of prey, and so on.
