Author: Risso, 1810
Clinitrachus argentatus Risso, 1810
Status in World Register of Marine Species:
Accepted name: Clinitrachus argentatus (Risso, 1810) (updated 2009-06-25)
Diagnosis: small cycloid scales deeply embedded in skin; no upturned hook-like process on anterior edge of cleithrum. Dorsal fin with deep incision; anterior part consists of 3 spines. Colour: light green to dark brown with silvery blotches. Size: to 10 cm.
Habitat: shallow water between dense algal growth; frequently at depths less than 1 m. Behaviour: walks on ventral fins. Food. bottom invertebrates. Reproduction: commonly May and June; male guards eggmass produced by several females.
Distribution. Mediterranean, Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and Atlantic coast of Morocco and Portugal.
Eggs, larvae and young stages. Padoa, 1956b: 750, pl. XLIV (fig. 1-9).
Otoliths (sagitta). Chaine, 1956: 250, pl. VI.