Trifin EelPisciproten trilobus

General Description

Not true eels, Tri-Fin Eels are long-bodied fish with tough, leathery skin. One set of rounded pectoral fins and two sets of rounded ventral fins for movement. Tail fin is ornamental and has 3 distinct lobes. Modified fins cover the gills and are used in threat displays, along with forked, blue tongues that are used to distract and scare predators. Comes in bright, visually distracting colors and patterns. Although predatory, it is fairly peaceful and wary of larger predators. Females can reach lengths of 5 to 6 feet, while males typically only reach 3 to 4 feet.

Habitat

Shallow coastal waters with heavy aquatic vegetation. Prefer areas of rocky outcroppings with good crevices for hiding in. 

Species Range

Temperate waters on the Eastern and Western coasts of Itona. Extremely common in Ynnis and Paet. 

Diet

Ambush predator. Hides in dense vegetation and rocky crevices to hunt small, schooling fish. Will occasionally eat soft-shelled crustaceans when available. 

Reproduction

Migratory spawners. Tri-fin eels travel temporarily to warmer waters in the South and release eggs in protected reefs. Eggs are externally fertilized and eggs hatch after only a week. The resulting fry must eat and grow quickly, making the journey back to the cooler water their parents came from after about 4 months. 

Miscellaneous

Tri-fin Eel meat is a flavorful delicacy on the Western Coast of Itona. Their colorful patterns and charismatic threat displays make them popular with young Itonan children, and stores are often stocked with Tri-fin Eel toys. 

Trifin eel variants.