Pholis laeta (Cope, 1873)

Common Name and Body Shape

Pholis laeta, also called the crescent gunnel, has an eel-like body shape similar to other gunnel species.

Maximum Length

It reaches a maximum total length of 25 centimeters (9.8 inches).

Dorsal and Anal Fin Structure

Its dorsal fin holds 74 to 80 spines, while its anal fin has 35 to 37 soft rays.

Caudal and Pelvic Fin Structure

The caudal fin is rounded, and the pelvic fins are very small.

Distinguishing Body Markings

This species can be distinguished from other gunnels by two rows of blackish crescent-shaped markings along its back, each with a yellow spot at the center.

Body Coloration and Camouflage

The overall body color of Pholis laeta ranges from orange-brown to olive-green; this coloration acts as camouflage, and color patterns change depending on the habitat the fish occupies.

Native Ocean Basin

The crescent gunnel is native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, along the western coast of North America.

Geographic Range

Its range extends from the Bering Sea coast of Alaska, through the Aleutian Islands, south to Crescent City in northern California.

Habitat Type

Pholis laeta inhabits shallow marine areas.

Substrate Hiding Behavior

It can also be found out of water, hiding under seaweed or rocks.

Depth Range

It lives in the demersal zone at depths of up to 73 meters.

Common Habitats

It is commonly found in tide pools and intertidal environments, often under rocks covered by seaweed.