Fin's Fish Guide
The Black-tailed triplefin (Tripterygion melanurum) is a saltwater fish of the family Tripterygiidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shaded rocky shores and in caves.
Description
The black-tailed triplefin is a very small, blenny-like rock fish of the family Tripterygiidae reaching at most about 5 cm. It is characterised by the three separate dorsal fins that give the group its name. The brownish body shows dark cross-bars and, in breeding males, a dark head and tail. Unlike most triplefins this species favours shaded places: it lives on dark rock faces, under overhangs and in caves of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic. It hunts small crustaceans and invertebrates. The male defends a territory and guards the eggs laid on the rock. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black-tailed triplefin?
The Black-tailed triplefin is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Very small rock fish with three separate dorsal fins; lives on shaded rock walls and in caves.
Where does the Black-tailed triplefin live?
The Black-tailed triplefin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shaded rocky shores and in caves.
How big does the Black-tailed triplefin get?
The Black-tailed triplefin grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Black-tailed triplefin dangerous to humans?
No, the Black-tailed triplefin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black-tailed triplefin edible?
The Black-tailed triplefin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tripterygion
More from the family Tripterygiidae
Want the complete picture on the Black-tailed triplefin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black-tailed triplefin is one of 12,519 species in the app.