Scientific Classification
Common Name
Bonefish
Scientific Name
Albula vulpes
Family
Albulidae
Order
Albuliformes
Class
Actinopterygii
Phylum
Chordata
Habitat
- Prefers shallow coastal waters, mudflats, sand flats, and mangrove lagoons
- Found in depths of 0–20 meters
- Moves with tides for feeding
Feeding Habits
- Carnivorous bottom feeders
Diet includes:
- Crustaceans (shrimp, crabs)
- Worms
- Mollusks
- Small benthic fish
Physical Characteristics
- Carnivorous bottom feeders
Color
Silvery with a bluish or greenish back
Body
Long, torpedo-shaped
Fins
Clear or slightly dusky
Mouth
Inferior (underslung), adapted for bottom feeding
Fishing Importance
- Highly prized in fly-fishing and sport fishing
- Practiced mainly on a catch and release basis due to its low commercial value but high ecological importance
Fun Facts
- Known as "Ghosts of the Flats" because of their camouflage and stealth
- Despite being targeted in sport fishing, they are not commonly eaten due to their bony structure (hence the name bonefish)
