 | This article has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these messages)
|
| Calamus arctifrons | |
|---|---|
| |
| Conservation status | |
 Least Concern (IUCN 3.1) | |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Acanthuriformes |
| Family: | Sparidae |
| Genus: | Calamus |
| Species: | C. arctifrons |
| Binomial name | |
| Calamus arctifrons Goode & T. H. Bean, 1882 | |
Calamus arctifrons, the grass porgy, is a fish species belonging to the family Sparidae, widely recognized for its association with reef environments and its distinct ecological and recreational importance. Found primarily in the western Atlantic Ocean, this species is known for its streamlined body, silver coloration with subtle patterns, and its adaptability to various habitats, including seagrass beds and sandy-bottom areas.
Morphology
Grass porgies exhibit a moderately compressed, oval body with a blunt snout and relatively small mouth. The body coloration ranges from silvery to grayish, often with faint vertical bands or mottling that aids in camouflage among seagrass and sandy substrates. They typically reach lengths of 15–25 cm (6–10 in), although larger specimens have been recorded. Key physical features include a dorsal fin with sharp spines followed by soft rays, providing a distinct ridged appearance; a slightly protrusible mouth equipped with small, sharp teeth suited for omnivorous feeding; and a forked caudal fin, which contributes to their agility in navigating complex habitats.
Habitat
Grass porgies are native to the western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the southeastern United States (including Florida) to parts of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They prefer shallow, coastal waters up to 30 meters (about 100 feet) deep and are frequently associated with seagrass meadows, reefs, and sandy bottoms.
Ecology and behaviour
 | This section does not cite any sources. Please help improve this section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (December 2024) (Learn how and when to remove this message) |
The grass porgy is a diurnal and primarily benthic feeder. It exhibits a diet that reflects its omnivorous tendencies, feeding on small crustaceans, bivalves, and gastropods, which it crushes using its strong pharyngeal teeth. Algae and detritus are consumed particularly in seagrass habitats. This fish plays a vital ecological role in contributing to the balance of benthic communities.
Socially, it is often observed in small groups, though solitary individuals are not uncommon.
Threats
The IUCN has evaluated Calamus arctifrons as a species of least concern, and its populations appear stable across most of its range. However, efforts to protect coastal habitats and manage fisheries sustainably are crucial for ensuring the long-term health of grass porgy populations.
References
- Collette, B.; Grubbs, D.; Pezold, F.; Simons, J.; Caruso, J.; Carlson, J.; McEachran, J.D.; Brenner, J.; Tornabene, L.; Chakrabarty, P.; Robertson, R.; Russell, B.; Carpenter, K.E. (2014). "Calamus arctifrons". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2014: e.T170243A1300078. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2014-3.RLTS.T170243A1300078.en.
- "Grass Porgy". Florida Fish And Wildlife Conservation Commission. Retrieved 2024-11-18.
- "Shorefishes - The Fishes - Species". biogeodb.stri.si.edu. Retrieved 2024-11-18.
- "Calamus arctifrons Grass porgy". www.reeflex.net.
- Froese, Rainer; Pauly, Daniel (eds.). "Calamus arctifrons". FishBase.
| Taxon identifiers | |
|---|---|
| Calamus arctifrons | |