Fin's Fish Guide
The Convict fish (Oxylebius pictus) is a saltwater fish of the family Zaniolepididae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The painted greenling is a combfish (Zaniolepididae, related to the greenlings) from the eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, pale body with several conspicuous red-brown crossbars. It occurs in rocky areas, from the intertidal zone to about 49 m deep. It sleeps on the oral disc of sea anemones and stays nearby by day, returning to them when threatened. As a bottom predator it feeds on small crustaceans and invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Convict fish?
The Convict fish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Sleeps on the oral disc of sea anemones and seeks protection there when in danger; red-brown bands.
Where does the Convict fish live?
The Convict fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America; rocky areas.
How big does the Convict fish get?
The Convict fish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Convict fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Convict fish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Convict fish edible?
The Convict fish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Zaniolepididae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Convict fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.