Brachygenys californiensis, commonly known as ‘salema‘ or ‘California grunt‘, is a marine fish of the family Haemulidae and order Perciformes. The genus name ‘Brachygenys‘ is derived from the Greek ‘brachys‘ (short) and ‘genys‘ (jaw), in reference to the relatively short shape of its lower jaw. The epithet ‘californiensis‘ indicates its geographic association with the California region, where this species is commonly found. Brachygenys californiensis is distributed along the eastern Pacific coast from southern California (USA) to Baja California (Mexico) and even in some areas of the Gulf of California. This species inhabits shallow coastal waters, generally in areas with rocky bottoms, reefs, and kelp beds, at depths ranging from 1 to 50 meters.
Brachygenys californiensis is a small to medium-sized fish, with an average length of 15 to 25 centimeters, although it can reach up to 30 centimeters. Its body is oval and laterally compressed, with a small head and large eyes, adapted for foraging in coastal habitats with variable light conditions. The general coloration is silver or gray, with a darker tone on the back that lightens towards the flanks and belly. It has a series of horizontal lines (6-8) of golden yellowish or orange-brown on the sides, and its caudal fin is forked. It has a long, continuous dorsal fin, with a spiny anterior portion and a soft posterior portion. Brachygenys californiensis can be differentiated from similar species such as the ‘white grunts’ (Haemulon plumierii) by its more uniform coloration and more compressed body shape. Other species that can be confused with Brachygenys californiensis is the long-finned salema (Xenichthys xanti). To differentiate the latter, note that the spiny part of the dorsal fin is much shorter than the base of the spineless portion. Additionally, it has a black spot at the base of the tail.
As for its feeding habits, Brachygenys californiensis is primarily carnivorous, feeding on small benthic invertebrates, such as crustaceans, molluscs, worms and other bottom-dwelling organisms. It uses its relatively small mouth to suck in and crush prey it finds on sandy or rocky substrates. It may also capture small fish if the opportunity presents itself. Its feeding behavior contributes to cleaning the seafloor and maintaining the balance of invertebrate populations.
Reproduction of Brachygenys californiensis is oviparous and usually occurs during the warmer months of the year, from late spring through summer. This species reproduces externally: females release eggs into the water, where they are fertilized by males. The eggs are pelagic and float in the water column until they hatch. The larvae are initially planktonic and, after several weeks, settle to the seafloor where they complete their development to juveniles. Not much is known about the specific details of their reproductive behavior, but, like many other members of the Haemulidae family, it is likely that they form aggregations during spawning.
A curious fact about Brachygenys californiensis is its ability to emit sounds or ‘snore’ through the contraction of its swim bladder muscles, a behavior used to communicate with other individuals, especially during reproduction or when they feel threatened. This ‘snoring’ characteristic is common in fish of the family Haemulidae, and is believed to help coordinate group movements or establish territories. In addition, its meat is appreciated in some regions for its good taste, which makes it a species of interest for both sport fishing and small-scale commercial fishing.
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