Fin's Fish Guide
The Black-finned triple-spine (Triacanthus biaculeatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Triacanthidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The short-nosed tripodfish is a tripodfish (Triacanthidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a laterally compressed, silvery body with a stout, locking first dorsal fin spine and a pair of powerful pelvic fin spines, to which the name refers. It inhabits sandy and muddy flats of coastal and estuarine waters. On the bottom it feeds on benthic invertebrates. It is sold fresh and used in Chinese medicine. The stout fin spines can give a painful puncture wound if handled; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black-finned triple-spine?
The Black-finned triple-spine has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Lockable dorsal fin spine and powerful pelvic fin spines; inhabits sandy and muddy bottoms.
Where does the Black-finned triple-spine live?
The Black-finned triple-spine lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific; sandy and muddy coastal and estuarine flats.
How big does the Black-finned triple-spine get?
The Black-finned triple-spine grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Black-finned triple-spine dangerous to humans?
No, the Black-finned triple-spine is harmless to humans. The stout, locking dorsal and pelvic fin spines can give a painful puncture wound if handled. Clean the wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Black-finned triple-spine edible?
Yes, the Black-finned triple-spine is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Triacanthus
More from the family Triacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Black-finned triple-spine?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black-finned triple-spine is one of 12,519 species in the app.