Alabes bathys

Alabes bathys is a small saltwater fish belonging to the family Gobiesocidae, commonly known as clingfishes. Described scientifically as <em>Alabes bathys</em>, this species reaches a maximum recorded length of approximately 3.9 cm, placing it among the smaller members of its family. It is a deep-dwelling species, documented at depths ranging from 160 to 348 metres, suggesting adaptation to dimly lit, high-pressure benthic environments. Clingfishes of the family Gobiesocidae are characterized by a modified pelvic fin that forms a suction disc, enabling them to adhere to hard substrates such as rocks and coral rubble on the seafloor. <em>Alabes bathys</em> likely uses this adhesive structure to maintain position in its deep-water habitat. Details of habitat and range for this species remain limited in the ichthyological literature, though its depth distribution hints at a preference for continental shelf or upper slope environments. As with many deep-sea and lower-mesopelagic clingfishes, direct observation is rare, and most knowledge comes from trawl specimens. The biology, diet, and reproductive behavior of this diminutive species are poorly documented, reflecting the inherent challenges of studying small deepwater fishes.