Fin's Fish Guide
The Connemara clingfish (Lepadogaster candolii) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiesocidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, in tide pools and under stones on rocky shores.
Description
This is a small, flat rock fish of the family Gobiesocidae (clingfishes) reaching about 7.5 cm. The flattened head tapers into a flat snout, and on the belly is a strong sucking disc, formed from the fused pelvic fins, with which the fish clings firmly to stones in the surf. The body is red-brown to greenish and blotched, good camouflage among stones and weeds. The species lives in tide pools and under stones on rocky shores of the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. As a bottom-dweller it hunts small crustaceans and worms. The pair lays the eggs under a stone and guards them. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Connemara clingfish?
The Connemara clingfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Small, flat rock fish with a flattened snout and a strong sucker on the belly, formed from the pelvic fins, with which it attaches itself to stones.
Where does the Connemara clingfish live?
The Connemara clingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, in tide pools and under stones on rocky shores.
How big does the Connemara clingfish get?
The Connemara clingfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Connemara clingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Connemara clingfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Connemara clingfish edible?
The Connemara clingfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Connemara clingfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lepadogaster
More from the family Gobiesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Connemara clingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Connemara clingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.