Sad Klipfish

Clinus acuminatus

The sad klipfish, Clinus acuminatus, is a small, demersal fish found along the coast of Namibia and South Africa. It reaches a maximum length of 13 cm and is known for its slightly compressed body and wedge-shaped snout. The fish's coloration varies from light buff to green, yellowish brown, or grey, often with small white spots and darker mosaic-like bars. The tips of its fins and tentacles are vermilion, and it has distinctive dark bands radiating from its eyes, giving it a 'sad' appearance. Juveniles are white with black cross-bars. This species inhabits tide pools and subtidal areas, particularly abundant on the Cape Peninsula's littoral and common in Sea Point's rock pools. It tends to hide under rocks and ledges, making it a cryptic presence in its environment. The sad klipfish feeds primarily on crustaceans, such as amphipods, isopods, and crabs, and is viviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young. Divers may encounter the sad klipfish in shallow rock pools, where it may be affected by coastal development in the eastern part of its range. However, it remains more abundant and likely unimpacted in its western range. The species is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.