Freckled wriggler
📖 Overview
Freckled wriggler (Xenisthmus balius) is a ray-finned fish of the family Xenisthmidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 2.6 cm. It occurs at depths between 2 and 17 metres. With a trophic level of 3.1, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 13 - 14; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 12 - 13; Vertebrae: 26. This species is distinguished by the following set of characters: D VI + I,13 (rarely I,14); anterior rim of posterior nostril raised, without well-developed flap; mainly cycloid on body; head and body pale, with reticulate mottling dorsally .: elongated; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Freckled wriggler is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Freckled wriggler is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Freckled wriggler is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range 2 - 17 m . Tropical Indian Ocean: Arabian Gulf (Saudi Arabia) and the Red Sea (Eritrea, Egypt and Saudi Arabia).
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
No observations yet — be the first to log one!
View all observations for Freckled wriggler ↗Spotted incorrect or outdated data? Submit a correction and our editorial team will review it. Approved edits go live within 48 hours.
Found a factual error, broken data, or inappropriate content? Let us know and we will investigate promptly.