Tripterygion

Tripterygion is a genus of combtooth blennies, small, colorful fish found in rocky coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea, the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, and the Black Sea. They are commonly called triplefins or threefin blennies, referring to their distinctive three dorsal fins.

Common Names

While scientifically known as Tripterygion, these fish are commonly referred to as:

  • Triplefins
  • Threefin Blennies

Characteristics

Tripterygion species are characterized by their elongated, slender bodies, typically reaching lengths of 5-10 cm. They possess a distinctive triple dorsal fin system: the first is short and spiny, the second is elongated and soft-rayed, and the third is tiny and almost invisible. Their scales are small and embedded in the skin, giving them a smooth, almost slimy texture. Their coloration is highly variable, often with intricate patterns of brown, orange, yellow, and black. These patterns can serve as camouflage and potentially for species identification.

Environment

Triplefins are primarily found in rocky intertidal zones, living among crevices and seaweed. They prefer clear, shallow water with strong currents. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, from exposed shorelines to sheltered tide pools. These fish are often seen clinging to rocks and seaweed, using their pelvic fins as suction cups for stability.

References

Wikipedia: Tripterygion
FishBase: Tripterygion
WoRMS: Tripterygion