Halfbarred Pout: Gymnelus hemifasciatus Andriashev, 1937
The most abundant Gymnelus species in the western Arctic
Size
- 14 cm (5.5 in)
Color & Characteristics
- Juveniles light tan with dark brownish to greenish reticulation and checkering on back and upper sides
- Females develop dark bands down to lateral line or almost to anal fin. Males develop dark orange bands reaching anal fin, and anal fin turns black
- In both sexes top of head and back typically retain reticulation
- Bands narrower and more numerous than in G. viridis
- One or more ocelli may be present on dorsal fin
- Dorsal fin origin usually above anterior half of pectoral fin; pectoral fin rays usually 10 or 11
Habitat
- Arctic and subarctic faunal regions
- Benthic, from intertidal area to depth of 200 m, mostly at 35–80 m
- Found on mud and gravel bottoms
Feeding
- Prey on gammarid amphipods, polychaetes, bivalves, other benthic invertebrates
- Eaten by seals, seabirds, cods and other fishes
Life cycle
- Spawn in late August to September
- Females mature at 70-80 mm
- Release 8–26 eggs, 2.5-4.5 mm in diameter
Page Authors: Kitty and Tony Mecklenburg
Created: Mar 18, 2009
