Lepadichthys
Lepadichthys is a genus of fish in the family Lepadichthyidae, commonly known as the clingfishes. These are small, bottom-dwelling fish found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. They are characterized by their flattened bodies, sucker-like mouths, and the ability to cling to rocks, corals, and other hard surfaces using their pelvic fins.
Characteristics
Lepadichthys species typically range in size from 2 to 10 centimeters (0.8 to 4 inches). They have elongated bodies with a rounded head and a small, terminal mouth. Their eyes are located on top of their head, giving them a wide field of vision. One distinctive feature of Lepadichthys is their pelvic fins, which are modified into a sucker-like structure that allows them to attach themselves to surfaces.
Environment
Lepadichthys clingfishes are found in a variety of marine habitats, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds. They are often associated with algae and invertebrates, which they feed on. They prefer areas with strong currents, where they can use their sucker-like mouths to cling to surfaces and avoid being swept away.
Distribution
Lepadichthys species are distributed worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters. They are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Some notable locations include the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Red Sea.
Species
The genus Lepadichthys currently includes five recognized species:
- Lepadichthys frenatus (Günther, 1861)
- Lepadichthys lineatus (Günther, 1861)
- Lepadichthys rondeleti (Smith, 1959)
- Lepadichthys rugosus (Smith, 1959)
- Lepadichthys sandaracinos (Cope, 1871)
References
For more information on Lepadichthys, consult the following sources: