Caranx hippos is a type of fish commonly known as the crevalle jack. The spelling of this name may seem confusing due to its use of non-English letters. However, it can be easily phonetically transcribed as [kəˈræŋks ˈhɪpəs]. The first part of the name is pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by a hard "g" sound. The second word has a soft "h" sound and a short "i" sound. Overall, the spelling of Caranx hippos is a reflection of its scientific classification within the animal kingdom.
Caranx hippos, also known as the crevalle jack, is a species of fish belonging to the Carangidae family. It is a large-bodied fish, typically measuring around 1-2 feet in length and weighing between 5-20 pounds. The species is characterized by its elongated, torpedo-shaped body, metallic greenish-blue or bluish-black coloration on the upper body, and a silver-white underbelly.
Crevalle jacks are most commonly found in warm coastal waters, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. They are known for their migratory behavior, often forming large schools and moving towards shallow waters during various seasons. These fish are highly adaptable and can be found in a range of habitats, including estuaries, bays, reefs, and open ocean environments.
In terms of diet, Caranx hippos are opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of prey, such as small fish, crustaceans, and squid. They are known for their aggressive hunting behavior, often using speed and agility to capture their prey.
From a conservation standpoint, Caranx hippos is considered a species of least concern as it has a wide distribution and is not currently facing any major threats. It is a popular target for recreational anglers due to its size and strong fighting ability, making it a sought-after sportfish in many regions.
Overall, Caranx hippos, or crevalle jack, is a robust and adaptable fish species that plays an important ecological role in coastal marine environments.
The word "Caranx hippos" is derived from two separate etymologies:
1. Caranx: The term "Caranx" comes from the Ancient Greek word "κάρανξ" (káranx), which originally meant "a kind of fish". This term was used by the ancient Greek naturalist and philosopher Aristotle to refer to a type of fish that is believed to be the same as what we now call "jackfish" or "trevally". Over time, this term has been used to refer to various species in the Carangidae family, including Caranx hippos.
2. Hippos: The term "hippos" is also derived from Ancient Greek, meaning "horse". It was used by the ancient Greek physician and naturalist Galen to describe a type of fish that resembled the face of a horse.