Black Prickleback

Xiphister atropurpureus

Black Prickleback

A prickleback of intertidal rocks and gravel, it hides beneath stones and seaweed and can breathe air, staying out of water for the better part of a day if kept moist. It lives in the shallows down to about twelve metres, and males guard the laid eggs.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Perciformes › Stichaeidae › Xiphister

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 283194.

FAQ

How deep does the Black Prickleback live?
The Black Prickleback (Xiphister atropurpureus) is typically found at 8–12 m.
Is the Black Prickleback dangerous to divers?
The Black Prickleback is harmless to divers.
How big does the Black Prickleback get?
The Black Prickleback grows to about 30.5 cm.