Fin's Fish Guide
The Flagtail wormfish (Clarkichthys bilineatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Microdesmidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The flagtail wormfish is a small, worm-like goby relative from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 6 cm and has an extremely slender, partly translucent body with a long, continuous dorsal and anal fin and a conspicuous flag-shaped tail. As a bottom-dweller it hovers just above sandy bottoms near its burrow, into which it vanishes in a flash when threatened, and feeds on small zooplankton. 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 Flagtail wormfish?
The Flagtail wormfish has a snake-like body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. Extremely slender worm-like body with a flag-shaped tail; flees into a sand burrow
Where does the Flagtail wormfish live?
The Flagtail wormfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Flagtail wormfish get?
The Flagtail wormfish grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Flagtail wormfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Flagtail 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 Flagtail wormfish edible?
The Flagtail wormfish 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 Microdesmidae
Want the complete picture on the Flagtail wormfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flagtail wormfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.