Scaly-Headed Triplefin

Karalepis stewarti

The Scaly-headed Triplefin is a small reef fish found exclusively in New Zealand waters. It inhabits the coastal regions around the North Island, South Island, and several smaller islands such as the Three Kings Islands, Snares Island, and Stewart Island. This species is typically found at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters, although it can occur as shallow as 0 meters and as deep as 33 meters. It prefers rocky reef environments, often hiding in crevices or holes during daylight hours. This species reaches a maximum length of 15 cm and is nocturnal, becoming more active at night. During the day, divers may spot them nestled in crevices, where they remain relatively motionless. The Scaly-headed Triplefin feeds primarily on small crustaceans and mollusks, which it hunts during its nocturnal forays. Reproduction involves laying eggs that are hemispherical and equipped with sticky threads, allowing them to adhere to algae in nesting sites. The larvae are planktonic, predominantly found in shallow, nearshore waters. The Scaly-headed Triplefin is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.