Bonefish
The bonefish, Albula vulpes, glides through warm coastal shallows, its sleek silver form almost invisible in sunlit waters. Known for their speed and agility, bonefish challenge anglers and maintain ecological balance as vital nutrient recyclers in their marine habitats.
2 years
Age of Sexual Maturity
Near Threatened
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
Albula vulpes, commonly known as the bonefish, is renowned for its silvery, streamlined body perfectly designed for swift movement in shallow tropical and subtropical waters. It is a highly prized sportfish due to its elusive nature and powerful runs. Bonefish play a vital role in marine ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling.
Distribution Range of the Bonefish
Albula vulpes, commonly known as the bonefish, is primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean. The species is distributed along the coasts of Florida, the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean islands, extending to the Gulf of Mexico and the northern coast of South America. It is also found on the eastern coast of the Atlantic in areas such as the Canary Islands and the West African coast.
Bonefish's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The bonefish typically inhabits shallow coastal waters, including estuaries, bays, and flats. These environments are characterized by sandy or muddy bottoms, seagrass beds, and mangrove areas. The species thrives in warm waters with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), which are common in tropical and subtropical regions.
Ecological Niche
Albula vulpes is primarily a benthic feeder, using its highly developed sense of smell to locate prey such as crustaceans, worms, and mollusks hidden in the substrate. The bonefish's ecological niche involves playing a crucial role in the food web as both predator and prey, being a sought-after target for larger predatory fish and birds. Its presence is also significant for recreational fishing industries in regions like the Bahamas and Florida.
Copyright @ Nature Style Limited. All Rights Reserved.