About Synapturichthys kleinii (Risso, 1827)
Synapturichthys kleinii reaches a maximum total length of 40 centimeters (16 inches), though most individuals only grow to around 15 centimeters (5.9 inches) in total length. On its blind side – the side that does not hold its eyes – the head is covered in small filaments. These filaments give the fish a bearded look when viewed from the front. The eyes of this species are green, and its body is pale brown. The body is covered in large, round blotches that are connected by smaller blotches. These markings form circles that have white centers, and this patterning extends onto the dorsal and anal fins. The caudal and pectoral fins of this species are small. This fish occurs in the Mediterranean Sea and along the Atlantic coast of Africa, and it barely enters the Indian Ocean near South Africa. It lives on sandy and rubble sea beds, and is particularly found close to ship wrecks and reefs. It feeds on small benthic invertebrates.
