Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Muraenesocidae
- Genus
- Cynoponticus
- Species
- coniceps
Habitat
This species inhabits coastal waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean, from Mexico to Peru, typically in depths of 10 to 200 meters over sandy or muddy bottoms. It prefers areas near reefs or structures for hiding and ambushing prey. Geographic preferences include warmer tropical and subtropical regions.
Diet
The Red pike conger primarily feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and occasionally squid, using its sharp teeth to seize prey in sudden bursts. It is a nocturnal hunter, actively foraging at night in shallow waters. Feeding behavior involves lurking in burrows or crevices before striking.
Behavior
This species is solitary and territorial, often burrowing into sediment or hiding in rocky crevices during the day and emerging at night to hunt. It exhibits ambush predation, remaining still until prey is within range. Red pike congers are generally non-migratory but may move to deeper waters seasonally.
Conservation Status
Listed as Data Deficient by IUCN.