Fin's Fish Guide
The Lord Howe triplefin (Enneapterygius howensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Tripterygiidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The Lord Howe triplefin is a triplefin (Tripterygiidae) from shallow reef water of the western Pacific, around Lord Howe. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a slender, brown-speckled body with three separate dorsal fins and large pectoral fins. As a bottom-dweller it perches on coral, rocks and in tide pools and snaps at small crustaceans and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lord Howe triplefin?
The Lord Howe triplefin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Lord Howe triplefin live?
The Lord Howe triplefin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, New Caledonia
How big does the Lord Howe triplefin get?
The Lord Howe triplefin grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Lord Howe triplefin dangerous to humans?
No, the Lord Howe triplefin 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.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Lord Howe triplefin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lord Howe triplefin is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enneapterygius
More from the family Tripterygiidae
Want the complete picture on the Lord Howe triplefin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lord Howe triplefin is one of 12,519 species in the app.