Spectacled triplefin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Spectacled triplefin |
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The spectacled triplefin, Ruanoho whero, is a small, interesting fish found in the waters around New Zealand. It's known for its unique appearance, especially its large eyes that look like they're wearing spectacles! This fish spends most of its time resting on the seafloor, using its special fins to prop itself up.
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About the Spectacled Triplefin
The spectacled triplefin is a type of fish called a triplefin. These fish get their name because they have three separate dorsal fins on their back. The spectacled triplefin is commonly found in shallow waters, from just a few metres deep to about 30 metres. It especially likes areas with broken rocks, like reefs, where it can hide and rest.
What Does It Look Like?
This little fish is usually between 4 and 8 centimetres long. Its head is quite flat, and it has very large eyes. A dark band goes around its eyes, which makes them look like they are wearing glasses or "spectacles." This is how it got its common name!
The spectacled triplefin's head and fins have cool patterns of fine blue lines. It also has large pectoral fins, which are the fins on its sides, like arms. It uses these fins to prop itself up when it's resting on the bottom of the ocean. This fish spends most of its time staying still on the seafloor.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
When it's time for the spectacled triplefin to breed, usually in winter and spring, the male fish change their appearance. They become much darker. Their head turns a blue-black colour, and their first dorsal fin (the one closest to their head) becomes black. They also develop dark bars on their body. These changes help them attract a mate during the breeding season.
Its Special Name
The scientific name for the spectacled triplefin is Ruanoho whero. The second part of its name, whero, comes from the Māori language. In Māori, "whero" means "red." This name refers to the reddish stripes that go diagonally across the fish's body. It's a cool way to describe one of its unique features!
