Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackbelly triplefin (Enneapterygius hemimelas) is a saltwater fish of the family Tripterygiidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The blackbelly triplefin is a very small triplefin from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 5 cm and has an elongate body with three separate dorsal fins; breeding males have a strikingly black head and belly. As a reef-dweller it often perches on coral and rock in shallow water and feeds on small benthic life and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans and has no commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackbelly triplefin?
The Blackbelly triplefin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Three separate dorsal fins; spawning male with a black belly
Where does the Blackbelly triplefin live?
The Blackbelly triplefin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Blackbelly triplefin get?
The Blackbelly triplefin grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Blackbelly triplefin dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackbelly triplefin 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.
Is the Blackbelly triplefin edible?
The Blackbelly triplefin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enneapterygius
More from the family Tripterygiidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackbelly triplefin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbelly triplefin is one of 12,519 species in the app.