The Selar crumenophthalmus is a species of fish commonly known as the bigeye scad. The word "Selar" is pronounced /ˈsɛlɑːr/ and refers to the genus of fishes to which the bigeye scad belongs. "Crumenophthalmus" is pronounced /kruːmɛnoʊˈθælməs/ and is derived from the Greek words khrumēnē (purse) and ophthalmos (eye). The word refers to the bigeye scad's unique eye structure that appears as though it has a purse or pouch on its eyelid. Understanding the IPA phonetic transcription can help in accurate and effective communication of scientific names in biology.
Selar crumenophthalmus, commonly known as the bigeye scad, is a species of fish belonging to the Carangidae family. It can be found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Indian Ocean, the eastern coast of Africa, and the Pacific Ocean.
The bigeye scad possesses a slender body with a distinctive metallic blue or greenish coloration on its dorsal surface and silver-white sides and belly. It usually grows to a length of about 15 to 20 centimeters, although some specimens can reach up to 30 centimeters. The species gets its name from its large eyes, which are proportionately bigger than those of similar fish species.
These fish are commonly found in shallow coastal waters and near reef structures. They prefer warm, clear, and saline waters and often form large schools, swimming either near the surface or at mid-water depths. Bigeye scad feed primarily on small planktonic organisms, including crustaceans and other tiny invertebrates.
Selar crumenophthalmus is an important food source for both humans and predatory fish species. It is commonly caught using seine nets, cast nets, and other fishing gears. Additionally, bigeye scad is used as bait for larger fish species targeting pelagic predators such as billfish and tuna.
Due to their abundance and widespread distribution, bigeye scad holds ecological significance in marine food webs, participating in the dynamics of energy transfer and providing sustenance for various organisms throughout their habitat.
The word "Selar crumenophthalmus" is the scientific name for a species of fish commonly known as the bigeye scad.
The etymology of this scientific name can be broken down as follows:
- "Selar": This name comes from the Greek word "selas", which means "light" or "brightness". It refers to the reflective and silvery scales found on the fish's body.
- "Crumeno-": This prefix is derived from the Latin word "crumenam", meaning "purse" or "bag". It describes the large capacity or shape of the stomach pouch found in some fish species, including the bigeye scad.
- "Ophthalmus": This suffix is derived from the Greek word "ophthalmos", which means "eye". It pertains to the characteristics of the fish's eyes, which are relatively large and prominent.