The Pinhead pearlfish (Encheliophis boraborensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Carapidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The pinhead pearlfish is a remarkable pearlfish from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a slender, rearward-tapering, partly translucent body without pelvic fins. Remarkably, it lives as a lodger inside the body cavity of sea cucumbers: it slips in through the anus and uses the sea cucumber as shelter, sometimes at its host's expense. It feeds on small zooplankton and tissue particles. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pinhead pearlfish?
The Pinhead pearlfish has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Pinhead pearlfish live?
The Pinhead pearlfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Pinhead pearlfish get?
The Pinhead pearlfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Pinhead pearlfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pinhead pearlfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Pinhead pearlfish edible?
The Pinhead pearlfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Encheliophis
More from the family Carapidae
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