Fin's Fish Guide
The Mediterranean klipfish (Clinitrachus argentatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Clinidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, among seagrass and seaweeds on shallow rocky shores.
Description
The Mediterranean klipfish is a small, slender rock fish of the family Clinidae reaching about 10 cm. The elongate body is green to brown and mottled, sometimes with a silvery sheen, and bears small branched skin flaps on the head; with these the fish blends perfectly among seagrass and weeds. The species lives on shallow rocky shores and in seagrass beds of the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, sheltering among the plants. As a bottom-dweller it hunts small crustaceans and invertebrates. The male defends a territory and guards the eggs laid among plants or in a crevice. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance, but it is a typical inhabitant of weedy rocky shores.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mediterranean klipfish?
The Mediterranean klipfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a marbled pattern. Small, slender rock fish with small branched skin flaps on the head; with its green to brown colour it blends in perfectly among seagrass and seaweeds.
Where does the Mediterranean klipfish live?
The Mediterranean klipfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, among seagrass and seaweeds on shallow rocky shores.
How big does the Mediterranean klipfish get?
The Mediterranean klipfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Mediterranean klipfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Mediterranean klipfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mediterranean klipfish edible?
The Mediterranean klipfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
More from the family Clinidae
Want the complete picture on the Mediterranean klipfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mediterranean klipfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.