Fin's Fish Guide
The Minute triplefin (Enneapterygius minutus) is a saltwater fish of the family Tripterygiidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The minute triplefin is one of the smallest reef fishes of the Indo-West Pacific, ranging from American Samoa to the Ryukyu Islands and Australia. It grows to only about 3 cm and takes its name from the three separate dorsal fins characteristic of the triplefins. The body is greenish-yellow to reddish-yellow with numerous dark spots. It lives on shallow, surge-swept reef edges with brown and coralline algae, to about 5 metres depth, and feeds on small plankton. The hemispherical, adhesive eggs are anchored among algae. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Minute triplefin?
The Minute triplefin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Three separate dorsal fins; one of the smallest reef fishes
Where does the Minute triplefin live?
The Minute triplefin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Minute triplefin get?
The Minute triplefin grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Minute triplefin dangerous to humans?
No, the Minute 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.
Is the Minute triplefin edible?
The Minute triplefin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Minute triplefin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Minute triplefin is one of 12,519 species in the app.