Ray-finned Fishes of Zihuatanejo

CLASS ACTINOPTERYGII

-Blennies (Order Blenniiformes)

-Triplefins (Family Tripterygiidae)

-Subfamily Tripterygiinae

-Genus Axoclinus

-Carmine Triplefin (Axoclinus storeyae)

The Carmine Triplefin (Axoclinus storeyae) is a species of triplefin blenny in the family Tripterygiidae. Small, elongated body, reaching about 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 inches) in length. A benthic (bottom-dwelling) species that perches on rocks and coral. Feeds primarily on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and tiny invertebrates. Uses camouflage and quick darting movements to avoid predators.

Diet

Axoclinus storeyae is a small carnivorous triplefin that feeds on tiny benthic invertebrates, including worms, small crustaceans and molluscs.

Range

The Carmine Triplefin is endemic to the tropical eastern Pacific. Its range extends from southern Baja California and the Gulf of California southward along the Pacific coast of Mexico.
Its documented southern range reaches southern Mexico.

Habitat

It inhabits very shallow rocky areas, particularly rocks and boulders supporting abundant algal growth. It is demersal and has been recorded from approximately 1–5 m depth.

Description

The Carmine Triplefin is a very small, short and robust fish with a large head and a spiny upper surface of the head. It reaches about 4.3 cm in length.
The upper body is brownish or greenish with three reddish-brown bars and several rows of pale spots. The tail base has contrasting red and white markings.
Breeding males develop a vivid red lower head and body, while the first dorsal fin and caudal fin become black. The species has three separate dorsal fins, characteristic of triplefins.