Red Triplefin

Helcogramma steinitzi, commonly referred to as the red triplefin, is a small yet fascinating fish species belonging to the genus Helcogramma. This species was first described by the renowned scientist Eugenie Clark in 1980. The name "steinitzi" is a tribute to Heinz Steinitz, a distinguished marine biologist and herpetologist from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

This vibrant fish can be found in the northwestern 🌊 Indian Ocean, specifically ranging from the 🌊 Red Sea to the 🌊 Persian Gulf. It inhabits tropical marine environments, typically associating with coral reefs at depths ranging from 1 to 12 meters. The red triplefin can grow up to 6 cm in length.

Anatomically, the red triplefin is noteworthy for its dorsal fins, which consist of 15 to 17 spines and 10 to 12 soft rays. It also possesses a single anal spine accompanied by 19 to 21 soft rays. The fish has a total of 35 to 36 vertebrae and the lateral line features a continuous array of 21 to 27 tubed scales, ending below the anterior part of the third dorsal fin. The fish's body is otherwise scaleless in key areas such as the nape, belly, and bases of the first dorsal and anal fins, with only a few scales present at the base of the caudal fin.

One of the distinguishing features of the red triplefin is its large mouth, with the maxilla extending to align with the posterior border of the pupil. The first dorsal fin is triangular in shape and begins over the rear margin of the fish’s preopercle. In males, the first spine of the dorsal fin is almost as long as the longest spine of the second dorsal fin, whereas in females, it is shorter. This fish is usually found alone, residing on corals and rocks in lagoons and bays.

The origin of the genus name "Helcogramma" is derived from Greek, combining "helkos," meaning ulcer or sore, with "gramma," which means letter or mark, reflecting perhaps its unique appearance or markings. This blend of intriguing anatomy and habitat makes the red triplefin a notable species in the marine biodiversity of its region.