The Maldives Triplefin is a small, reef-dwelling fish native to the clear waters of the Maldives. Recognized by its distinctive striped and spotted coloration, this species inhabits coral reefs and feeds on tiny invertebrates and zooplankton. Despite its small size, it plays an important role in the reef ecosystem and has a very limited known distribution.
COMMON NAME: Maldives Triplefin Fish
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Helicogramma maldivensis
FAMILY: Triplefin Blennies (Tripterygiidae)
DIET: Invertebrates, zooplankton
The Maldives Triplefin (Helicogramma maldivensis) is a species endemic to the Maldives. It inhabits clear-water reef environments and is typically found on coral patches along steep slopes or drop-offs. This fish occurs at depths ranging from 6 to 35 meters and is usually observed in small groups resting on sponges or smooth corals.
The distinctive stripes and spots in its coloration make this species relatively easy to identify. It has been recorded only from the Maldives and Sri Lanka and reaches a maximum length of approximately 40 mm.
Triplefins belong to the family Tripterygiidae, a diverse group comprising around 20 to 30 genera and roughly 200 species, most of which are found in tropical regions. These fishes share several characteristics with blennies, including three distinct dorsal fins—hence the common name “threefins.”
In some triplefin species, males develop bright coloration prior to egg-laying, while in others their coloration remains consistent throughout life. Most species are only a few centimeters long and inhabit crevices, cracks, and cave walls near algal reefs. The Maldives is believed to host approximately 10 species of triplefins. Their diet mainly consists of small benthic organisms and zooplankton.
Reference:
Kuiter, R. H. Fishes of the Maldives. Atoll Editions.
