Pholis
Pholis is a genus of fish in the family Pholidae, commonly known as gunnels. They are elongated, slender fish with a compressed body and a pointed head. Gunnels are generally small, with most species reaching a maximum length of 15–20 cm. They are found in coastal waters of the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans, typically inhabiting rocky shores and reefs.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Pholis have several distinguishing features:
- Elongated body: They are long and slender, with a snake-like appearance.
- Compressed body: Their bodies are flattened laterally.
- Pointed head: They have a small, pointed head.
- Small eyes: Their eyes are relatively small.
- Gill openings: They have small gill openings located just behind the eyes.
- Dorsal fin: Their dorsal fin runs the length of their back, extending from the head to the tail.
- Anal fin: Their anal fin is also long and extends for most of the length of their belly.
- Pectoral fins: Their pectoral fins are small and located just behind the head.
- Pelvic fins: They lack pelvic fins.
- Coloration: They are typically brown or gray, often with dark spots or blotches.
Environments
Pholis species are found in a variety of coastal habitats, including:
- Rocky shores
- Reefs
- Kelp forests
- Seagrass beds
They are often found in crevices and under rocks, where they seek shelter from predators.
Diet
Pholis gunnels are carnivorous and feed primarily on small invertebrates, including crustaceans, polychaetes, and mollusks.
Reproduction
Pholis species are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Females lay their eggs in clusters on rocks or other submerged surfaces. The eggs are guarded by the male, who may also fan them with his fins to keep them oxygenated.