Fin's Fish Guide
The Small-headed clingfish (Apletodon dentatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiesocidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, among seaweeds, seagrass and on shell beds of shallow coastal water.
Description
The small-headed clingfish is a very small, flattened clingfish of the family Gobiesocidae reaching about 4 cm. It has a broad, relatively small head and a brown to reddish mottled body; like other clingfishes the pelvic fins are fused into a sucking disc, with which the fish attaches to weeds, seagrass blades and shells. The species lives hidden among weeds and seagrass and on shell beds of shallow coastal water of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Among the plants it searches for very small crustaceans and invertebrates. The eggs are laid on a blade or shell and guarded by the parent. Because of its minuscule size and hidden lifestyle it is rarely noticed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Small-headed clingfish?
The Small-headed clingfish has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Very small, flattened clingfish with a broad head; the pelvic fins form a sucker with which it attaches itself among seaweeds and seagrass.
Where does the Small-headed clingfish live?
The Small-headed clingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, among seaweeds, seagrass and on shell beds of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Small-headed clingfish get?
The Small-headed clingfish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Small-headed clingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Small-headed clingfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Small-headed clingfish edible?
The Small-headed clingfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Small-headed clingfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gobiesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Small-headed clingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Small-headed clingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.