Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted kelpfish (Gibbonsia elegans) is a saltwater fish of the family Clinidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America; rocky bottoms with seaweed.
Description
The spotted kelpfish is a kelpfish (Clinidae) from the eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America. The species has a slender, elongate body whose colour varies strongly and matches the surrounding weed, from green to red-brown. It occurs on subtidal rocky bottoms to about 56 m deep, usually among seaweed where it is excellently camouflaged. It feeds on small invertebrates. The female lays white eggs in the weed; the male guards the egg mass. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted kelpfish?
The Spotted kelpfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a spots pattern. Highly variable colour as camouflage among seaweed; the male guards the eggs in the seaweed.
Where does the Spotted kelpfish live?
The Spotted kelpfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific off the west coast of North America; rocky bottoms with seaweed.
How big does the Spotted kelpfish get?
The Spotted kelpfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Spotted kelpfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted kelpfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted kelpfish edible?
The Spotted kelpfish 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 Gibbonsia
More from the family Clinidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted kelpfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted kelpfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.