Ophiclinus

Ophiclinus is a genus of marine fish belonging to the family Clinidae, commonly known as clingfishes. These small, benthic fish are characterized by their elongated, eel-like bodies and the presence of a sucker-like pelvic fin, which allows them to cling firmly to rocks and other surfaces. The genus is found in temperate and tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, with a particular concentration in the waters around Australia.

Frosted snake blenny – Ophiclinus gabrieli

Common Names

Members of the genus Ophiclinus are commonly referred to as "clingfishes", a name shared with many other members of the Clinidae family. However, specific species may have their own local names, such as the "rock clingfish" (Ophiclinus balteatus).

Characteristics

Ophiclinus species exhibit a number of distinctive characteristics that distinguish them from other clingfishes:

  • Elongated body: They have a slender, snake-like body that is typically compressed laterally.
  • Small size: Most species are relatively small, reaching lengths of only a few centimeters.
  • Pelvic fin: The pelvic fin is modified into a strong sucker, allowing them to cling to rocks, algae, and other substrates.
  • Coloration: Ophiclinus species can be quite colorful, with patterns that vary between species and even within a single species. Some have intricate markings, while others are more uniformly colored.
  • Dorsal fin: They have a long dorsal fin that extends nearly the entire length of their back.

Environment

Ophiclinus clingfishes are typically found in coastal marine habitats. They prefer rocky shores, reefs, and seagrass beds, where they can utilize their suckers to cling to the substrate. These fish are often found in crevices, under rocks, or amongst algae, where they are well-camouflaged and protected from predators.

References

For further information on Ophiclinus, you can consult the following resources: