Sea Chubs
Common family name
Chubs/Rudderfish
Alias
Drummers
Scientific name
Kyphosidae
Size
Sea Chubs can measure up to 70cm in length.
Identification
Chubs are oval-shaped and flat from either side. Their heads and mouths are small, and their entire bodies covered by small, rough scales. Their tail fins are forked or concave.
General Info
Sea Chubs belong to the Kyphosidae family which comprises of 15 genera and 42 species. They can be found over outer reefs and hard bottom areas, and are inquisitive and active. Their teeth are incisiform. Chubs form big schools when spawning, and are pelagic spawners. The name ‘rudderfish’ derives from their habit of following in the wake of boats.
Diet
Chubs feed on plant material such as seaweed and algae, yet some species are omnivorous and eat small invertebrates.
Distribution
Sea Chubs can be found in all tropical and temperate oceans across the world.
Common Species
Chub - Kyphosus sydneyanus
Blue chub - Kyphosus cinerascens
Brassy chub - Kyphosus vaigiensis
South Africa boasts exceptionally rich marine life. The country has a huge diversity of marine ecosystems and a variety of species...
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