Fin's Fish Guide
The Two-spotted clingfish (Diplecogaster bimaculata) is a saltwater fish of the family Gobiesocidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, under stones, shells and among gravel from shallow to moderately deep water.
Description
The two-spotted clingfish is a very small, flattened clingfish of the family Gobiesocidae reaching about 6 cm. Like other clingfishes the pelvic fins are fused into a powerful sucking disc, with which the fish anchors itself under stones and shells, even in the surf. The red-brown body is variably coloured; characteristically the male bears two conspicuous, often purple-blue rimmed spots behind the head, from which the species takes its name. It lives hidden under stones, shells and among gravel of shallow to moderate water of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. There it searches for very small crustaceans and invertebrates. The eggs are laid under a stone or shell and guarded. Because of its minuscule size it is rarely noticed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Two-spotted clingfish?
The Two-spotted clingfish has an irregular in shape body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Very small, flattened clingfish with the pelvic fins fused into a sucker; behind the head the male has two conspicuous blotches, often edged with purple-blue.
Where does the Two-spotted clingfish live?
The Two-spotted clingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, under stones, shells and among gravel from shallow to moderately deep water.
How big does the Two-spotted clingfish get?
The Two-spotted clingfish grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Two-spotted clingfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Two-spotted clingfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Two-spotted clingfish edible?
The Two-spotted clingfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Two-spotted clingfish and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Two-spotted clingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Two-spotted clingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gobiesocidae
Want the complete picture on the Two-spotted clingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Two-spotted clingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.