Aplodactylus punctatus Valenciennes, 1832
Aplodactylus punctatus
photo by Eakins, R.

Family:  Aplodactylidae (Marblefishes)
Max. size:  43.7 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 862.0 g
Environment:  demersal; marine
Distribution:  Southeast Pacific: reported from the warm temperate waters of the west coast of South America; from Callao, Peru (12° 02'S) to Talcahuano, Chile (36°41'S).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 16-17; Dorsal soft rays (total): 18-21; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 6-9; Vertebrae: 34-35
Biology:  This species is most abundant littoral species on the coast of central Chile, found in close association with the brown kelp Lessonia trabeculata. Juveniles found in tidepools to a maximum size of 15.7 cm TL and an estimated 3 years of age, adults occur subtidally. It is mainly herbivorous, feeding almost exclusively on brown, red and green algae, with a strong preference for green and red algae (digestion by acid hydrolysis). Its meat reported as an excellent pan-fish, with rich, white, sweet, and flaky meat (Ref. 86913).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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