Anoplarchus
Anoplarchus is a genus of marine fish in the family Stichaeidae, commonly known as pricklebacks. The genus consists of four species, all of which are found in the North Pacific Ocean. They are small, slender fish with elongated bodies, lacking scales and possessing a single dorsal fin that extends nearly the entire length of their backs. These fish are typically found in rocky intertidal and subtidal habitats, often residing in crevices or under rocks.
Common Names
Members of the genus Anoplarchus are known by a variety of common names, including:
- Prickleback
- Rock gunnel
- Suckerfish
- Blenny
Characteristics
Anoplarchus species share several distinguishing characteristics:
- Elongated, slender body
- Lack of scales
- Single, long dorsal fin
- Small, protrusible mouth
- Usually brown or gray coloration
Environment
These fish are typically found in the North Pacific Ocean, inhabiting rocky intertidal and subtidal zones. They often reside in crevices or under rocks, where they seek protection from predators and find food. Some species may also be found in kelp forests or seagrass beds.
References
For further information on Anoplarchus, you can consult the following resources: