Fin's Fish Guide
The Red-black triplefin (Tripterygion tripteronotum) is a saltwater fish of the family Tripterygiidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shallow rocky shores.
Description
The red-black triplefin is a small, blenny-like rock fish of the family Tripterygiidae reaching about 8 cm. It is characterised by the three separate dorsal fins, from which the group takes its name. The species shows a strong colour difference between the sexes: breeding males have a bright red body with a jet-black head, while females and juveniles are inconspicuously brownish and mottled. It lives on shallow, well-lit rocky shores of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, often on sunlit rock faces. It hunts small crustaceans and other tiny animals. The male fiercely defends a territory and guards the eggs laid on the rock.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red-black triplefin?
The Red-black triplefin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Small rock fish with three separate dorsal fins; breeding males have a bright red body with a jet black head.
Where does the Red-black triplefin live?
The Red-black triplefin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and adjacent eastern Atlantic, on shallow rocky shores.
How big does the Red-black triplefin get?
The Red-black triplefin grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Red-black triplefin dangerous to humans?
No, the Red-black triplefin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Red-black triplefin edible?
The Red-black triplefin is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Red-black triplefin and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tripterygion
More from the family Tripterygiidae
Want the complete picture on the Red-black triplefin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red-black triplefin is one of 12,519 species in the app.