How to Identify Red Handfish

To identify Red Handfish (Thymichthys politus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Varies from bright red to reddish-orange, often with darker red or brown blotches and spots, particularly on the dorsal surface. The ventral surface is typically paler. This coloration provides excellent camouflage among red algae.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Highly modified, limb-like pectoral and pelvic fins used for 'walking' on the seafloor., A prominent illicium (fishing lure) on the head, tipped with an esca (lure tip) that is relatively simple and bulbous., Rough, warty skin texture due to numerous dermal appendages and tubercles., Large, upward-pointing eyes., Small, upturned mouth.

Dorsal fin

Two separate dorsal fins: the first is modified into an illicium and esca; the second is a small, fleshy fin located further back on the body, typically with 13-14 soft rays.

Tail fin

Small, rounded caudal fin, typically with 9 soft rays.

Pectoral fin

Large, fleshy, and highly modified into limb-like structures with a distinct 'elbow' and 'hand' structure, used for ambulation. Typically with 8-9 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are also modified into limb-like structures, positioned anterior to the pectoral fins, and used in conjunction with the pectorals for 'walking'. Typically with 1 soft ray.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Bright red to reddish-orange body with darker blotches, providing camouflage among red algae.

2. 2

   Modified Fins

   Distinctive, limb-like pectoral and pelvic fins used for 'walking' rather than swimming. These fins have a clear 'hand' and 'elbow' appearance.

3. 3

   Illicium and Esca

   A prominent, simple, bulbous lure (esca) on a stalk (illicium) located on the head, used to attract prey.

4. 4

   Skin Texture

   Rough, warty skin covered in numerous dermal appendages and tubercles.

5. 5

   Size

   Relatively small, reaching a maximum length of about 13.5 cm (5.3 inches).

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