Lizard triplefin
The lizard triplefin, Crocodilichthys gracilis, is a fish of the family Tripterygiidae and only member of the genus Crocodilichthys, found in the Gulf of California in the Tropical [Eastern Pacific] at depths down to 38 m. Its length is only up to about 64 mm. In some regions of the Gulf of California, such as Bahía [de los Ángeles], this species is closely associated with microhabitats formed by the coral Porites panamensis, where it can reach average densities of up to 9 individuals per square meter. The body of Crocodilichthys gracilis is pale tan or pinkish, with a dark snout and an iris marked by red and black bars. It features approximately three longitudinal rows of double red-brown spots, with the lowest row separated by white dashes along the midline. A prominent black band, with a white anterior border, encircles the base of the tail and extends onto the fin. The outer part of the tail fin is red, while the central portion is cream-colored.