Cape klipfish Clinus brevicristatus
Top two photos by Phil Parr, other photos Guido Zsilavecz
Agile klipfish Clinus agilis. Note the dorsal fin, without regular transparent sections.
The Cape klipfish is infrequently seen, and more common on the Atlantic side than in False Bay, and it is not known to reach further east of it.
It is not the most attractive klipfish, having generally fairly dull colouration in dirty white, brown or nearly black, but this does allow it to blend in very well with its surroundings, and it is hence rarely seen.
As there are a number of small, indistinct klipfish species identifying one as the Cape klipfish requires some practice, but in general the rounded head profile and the even dorsal fin profile, that is, without a conspicuous crest, help. Usually a small, white spot can be found on the top edge of the gill cover, although it seems to be absent in the juvenile - it is clearly visible in the other photo. The agile klipfish (Clinus agilis) is very similar, but can be distinguished by having a dorsal fin which is opaque throughout its length, whereas the Cape klipfish has regular transparent sections, as shown.
For further details on these klipfishes, see Coastal Fishes of the Cape Peninsula and False Bay, available directly from SURG or from better dive stores in Cape Town.
Coastal fishes of the Cape Peninsula and False Bay, a divers' identification guide, G Zsilavecz, 2005.