Fin's Fish Guide
The Curious wormfish (Gunnellichthys curiosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Microdesmidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The curious wormfish is a very slender, worm-like goby relative from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has an extremely elongate body with an orange to blue longitudinal stripe and a long, continuous dorsal fin. As a bottom-dweller it hovers just above sandy bottoms near its burrow, into which it vanishes in a flash when threatened. It feeds on small zooplankton. The fish appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Curious wormfish?
The Curious wormfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Extremely slender worm-like body; flees into a sand burrow
Where does the Curious wormfish live?
The Curious wormfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Curious wormfish get?
The Curious wormfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Curious wormfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Curious wormfish 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 Curious wormfish edible?
The Curious wormfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Curious wormfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Curious wormfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gunnellichthys
More from the family Microdesmidae
Want the complete picture on the Curious wormfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Curious wormfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.