Fin's Fish Guide
The Orange-lined wormfish (Gunnellichthys viridescens) is a saltwater fish of the family Microdesmidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The orange-lined wormfish is a slender wormfish (Microdesmidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a strongly elongate, pale body with an orange longitudinal line and a long, low dorsal fin. It hovers just above sand and rubble bottoms near reefs and darts into a burrow at lightning speed when threatened; it eats small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Orange-lined wormfish?
The Orange-lined wormfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly white and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Orange-lined wormfish live?
The Orange-lined wormfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Guam, Indonesia, Japan, Kuwait and others
How big does the Orange-lined wormfish get?
The Orange-lined wormfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Orange-lined wormfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Orange-lined 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gunnellichthys
More from the family Microdesmidae
Want the complete picture on the Orange-lined wormfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orange-lined wormfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.