Habitat 
Depth 
Group 
Role WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
The red-black triplefin has an elongated body, pointed snout and three distinct dorsals: a short first, longer second and soft-rayed third. Discreet beige to grey-brown phases bear five fairly even dark bars. Breeding males develop a black head and red anterior body, with increased development of some dorsal rays. The adult length around ten centimetres is a guide, not an identification requirement.
WHERE DOES IT LIVE?
Sunlit algal rock is characteristic, with the described range extending from the surface to around 8–10 m. Cracks permit rapid nearby retreat. This differs from some triplefin habitats beneath overhangs or around cavities. It provides ecological context without replacing visible characters. Documented occurrence is Mediterranean, including French coasts.
WHAT DOES IT EAT?
The fish takes small crustaceans and other small planktonic resources. It stays close to substrate, alternating brief movements with resting. Prey size places it within small-scale predation rather than pursuit of large fish.
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