Swallowtail seaperch

Biology

The swallowtail seaperch lives amongst rocks and corals where it remains hidden in caves and crevices during the day. It leaves only at night to feed on crustaceans and small fishes. It has an interesting feature: they are all born females and, possibly at some point in their lives, they can turn into males.

Conservation

The Atlantic is the second largest ocean, but has a coast line four times bigger than the Pacific’s. It originates in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and is split by the equator into the Northern Atlantic and the Southern Atlantic. Due to its system of surface currents, the climate is variable along its range. Therefore, the Azores region, where this fish also occurs, is rich with a wide variety of tropical species.

Curiosities

These are easily recognized by the pelvic fins, which are developed and yellow in colour, which in males turns red during reproduction season.