Which small schooling fish are frequently cited components of the *Hydrophis platurus* diet?
Answer
Mullet, jacks, anchovies, and damselfish
The primary components frequently cited as part of the yellow-bellied sea snake's diet include specific types of small schooling fish that travel in open water formations. These include mullet, jacks, anchovies, and damselfish. Juvenile mahimahi are also noted as being part of the typical intake for this predator. While eels are sometimes mentioned regarding sea snake prey in general, this particular species relies on different tactics and does not focus on difficult prey like eels that hide in reefs; its preference leans heavily toward species abundant in open water.
Related Questions
What specialized feeding classification defines the yellow-bellied sea snake?Which small schooling fish are frequently cited components of the *Hydrophis platurus* diet?What strategy does the *H. platurus* employ near the water’s surface for feeding?Where are the specialized glands that excrete excess salt in *H. platurus* located?What unusual swimming ability helps the yellow-bellied sea snake maneuver fish before striking?What physical oceanic features concentrate small fish and attract *H. platurus* aggregations?What complex cocktail constitutes the highly potent venom of the yellow-bellied sea snake?Besides fish, what type of animal have captive yellow-bellied sea snakes been known to accept?How large are newborn yellow-bellied sea snakes when they are first capable of hunting?What physiological challenge results from the *H. platurus* consuming saltwater fish in the open ocean?Why is the potent venom's efficient use paramount for the pelagic hunter *H. platurus*?