Ogilbia ventralis (Gill, 1863)
Gulf brotula
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Dinematichthyidae (Viviparous brotula)
Max. size:  7.8 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 10 m
Distribution:  Eastern Central Pacific: around the southern tip of the Gulf of California.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal soft rays (total): 78-91; Anal soft rays: 56-65; Vertebrae: 42-45. The species is characterized by the following: Vertebrae 11-13 + 30-33 = 42-45, dorsal fin rays 78-91, anal fin rays 56-65, the outer pseudoclasper broad, distally expanded; inner pseudoclasper branched into three slender branches, two outer v-shaped, medial one short and stout, penis with abrupt change from thick base to thin tip; opercular spine with single, sharp tip; scales on cheek small, in vertical 7-9 rows (Ref. 57883).
Biology:  Common species (Ref. 34024). Found in rocky crevices (Ref. 11482).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 29 April 2008 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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