Fin's Fish Guide
The Bivalve pearlfish (Onuxodon fowleri) is a saltwater fish of the family Carapidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati, Indonesia and others
Description
The bivalve pearlfish is a small pearlfish (Carapidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, translucent, eel-like body without pelvic fins. Remarkably it often lives hidden inside the shell of a living pearl oyster or other bivalve, where it finds shelter and emerges at night to search for small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bivalve pearlfish?
The Bivalve pearlfish has a snake-like body and is mainly white.
Where does the Bivalve pearlfish live?
The Bivalve pearlfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Marquesas Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati, Indonesia and others
How big does the Bivalve pearlfish get?
The Bivalve pearlfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Bivalve pearlfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bivalve pearlfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Carapidae
Want the complete picture on the Bivalve pearlfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bivalve pearlfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.