The Blunt-snouted clingfish (Gouania willdenowi) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiesocidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The blunt-snouted clingfish is a very small, slender and eel-like clingfish of the family Gobiesocidae reaching about 5 cm. The scaleless, brown-red body has a flattened, blunt snout; the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc, with which the fish anchors itself firmly among pebbles. This lets it live where few other fish can survive: among the pebbles in the surf of shallow shingle beaches of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, where the water is constantly moving. Among the stones it searches for very small crustaceans and invertebrates. The eggs are laid among the pebbles. Because of its hidden lifestyle and minuscule size it is rarely noticed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blunt-snouted clingfish?
The Blunt-snouted clingfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Blunt-snouted clingfish live?
The Blunt-snouted clingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Blunt-snouted clingfish get?
The Blunt-snouted clingfish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Blunt-snouted clingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blunt-snouted clingfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Blunt-snouted clingfish edible?
The Blunt-snouted clingfish is not usually eaten.
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Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
More from the family Gobiesocidae
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