Paranotothenia magellanica

Paranotothenia magellanica

Paranotothenia magellanica, also known as the Magellanic rockcod, is a species of Nototheniidae, a family of fish commonly known as the Antarctic toothfish. This species is native to the Southern Ocean and is named after the Strait of Magellan, where it was first discovered.

Taxonomy

Paranotothenia magellanica belongs to the genus Paranotothenia, which is part of the family Nototheniidae. This family is known for its ability to survive in extremely cold waters, thanks to a unique antifreeze protein found in their blood.

Distribution and Habitat

The Magellanic rockcod is found in the Southern Ocean, particularly around the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, and the South Orkney Islands. It inhabits rocky, subtidal areas and has been found at depths of up to 500 meters.

Description

Paranotothenia magellanica is a medium-sized fish, typically measuring between 20 and 30 centimeters in length. It has a slender body with a large head and mouth. The coloration varies from a dark brown to a pale yellow, with darker markings on the dorsal side.

Diet

The diet of the Magellanic rockcod primarily consists of krill, small crustaceans, and other benthic organisms. It is also known to feed on smaller fish when available.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproduction of Paranotothenia magellanica. However, like other members of the Nototheniidae family, it is believed to be a broadcast spawner, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs.

Conservation Status

Currently, the IUCN has not evaluated the conservation status of Paranotothenia magellanica. However, as with all Antarctic species, it is potentially threatened by climate change and overfishing.

See Also

• Nototheniidae
• Antarctic toothfish
• Southern Ocean

References

• FishBase. (2018). Paranotothenia magellanica. Retrieved from http://www.fishbase.org/summary/Paranotothenia-magellanica.html
• Marine Species Identification Portal. (n.d.). Paranotothenia magellanica. Retrieved from http://species-identification.org/species.php?species_group=fnam&id=2321