The Unernak Chameleon, Gymnelus viridis, is a small marine fish that inhabits the cold, salty waters of Quebec. Although little known to sport fishermen due to its modest size and discreet nature, this inhabitant of the seabed is nonetheless fascinating for those interested in aquatic diversity. It is primarily found in the coastal waters of Northern Quebec, notably in Hudson Bay and Ungava Bay. Its appeal to anglers lies mainly in the study of its behavior and its role in the marine ecosystem. Although it is not a formidable fighter, the Unernak Chameleon attracts attention for its ability to adapt to changing environments and its remarkable camouflage ability.

The Unernak Chameleon has an elongated and slender body, adapted to life in rocky crevices and on the seabed. Its color ranges from olive green to brown, allowing it to blend into its environment, hence its name 'chameleon'. The patterns are generally marbled or spotted, further enhancing its natural camouflage. Its mouth is small, with slightly prominent jaws, adapted for capturing small prey. Its fins are well developed for swimming through currents, but its caudal fin is relatively small, limiting its top speed. The scales are very small and often invisible to the naked eye, giving its skin a smooth appearance. Young individuals are generally lighter and more uniform than adults. There are no marked differences between males and females, even during the breeding season.

In Quebec, the Unernak Chameleon is mainly found in Arctic waters, particularly in Hudson Bay and Ungava Bay. It is less common in southern Quebec, where the waters are warmer. Its range is limited to coastal areas and rocky bottoms, where it can hide and feed effectively. Although its presence is confirmed in these regions, it is rarely observed in large numbers, making it a relatively discreet fish. The Unernak Chameleon is not present in the freshwater of Quebec, preferring cold, saline marine environments.

The Unernak Chameleon frequents shallow marine waters, often at depths of 5 to 30 meters. It is particularly associated with rocky bottoms and areas rich in algae, where it can effectively conceal itself. Cold temperatures, typical of Arctic waters, constitute its ideal environment. It is often found near the coast, where marine currents bring an abundance of food. The structure of the rocky bottoms offers the Unernak natural hiding places from predators. During the summer months, it may venture a little further from the coast, but it generally remains in areas where the water temperature does not exceed 10 °C.

The Unernak Chameleon typically spawns in the spring, when temperatures begin to rise slightly. Females lay their eggs in crevices or under rocks, where they are protected from currents and predators. The eggs hatch after a few weeks, giving rise to larvae that feed on plankton. The growth of the young is rapid, and they reach sexual maturity in one to two years. The Unernak Chameleon has a relatively short lifespan of 3 to 5 years. Spring: Spawning and egg laying → Summer: Growth of the young → Autumn: Migration to deeper areas → Winter: Slowed life in cold waters.

The Unernak Chameleon is a rather solitary fish, preferring to live hidden in rocky crevices. It is not particularly territorial, but it defends its immediate space against intruders, especially during the spawning period. This fish is very sensitive to changes in light, taking advantage of darkness to move and feed. Sudden noises and disturbances in the water can make it flee quickly to its hiding places. In windy or bad weather, the Unernak Chameleon tends to remain still, well camouflaged among the rocks.

The diet of the Unernak Chameleon varies according to its life stage. Young individuals primarily feed on plankton and small aquatic larvae. As they grow, they expand their diet to include small crustaceans, worms, and mollusks. This fish is opportunistic and exploits available resources in its immediate habitat. In winter, when food becomes scarcer, the Unernak may reduce its activity and live off its reserves. In spring, it resumes a more active feeding pattern to compensate for the winter's scarcity.

In spring, the Unernak Chameleon is more active, seeking to feed abundantly after winter. The best times to observe it are early in the morning or late in the evening when it comes out of its hiding places. In summer, it remains active, taking advantage of the food abundance, although the relatively warm surface waters may push it to seek deeper or shaded areas. In autumn, its activity decreases slightly, but it continues to feed in anticipation of winter. During winter, the Unernak significantly reduces its activity, settling for small available prey. Weather conditions, such as overcast skies or low pressure, may encourage this fish to be more visible, as it will feel safer to come out of hiding.

Given that the Unernak Chameleon is not targeted for sport fishing, lures are not used for this species. However, for researchers or underwater photographers, lures or natural baits may be used to attract its attention for study or photography purposes. Prefer natural colors that blend well with the rocky bottoms so as not to scare it away.

For underwater observation, a warm wetsuit is essential to withstand the cold waters of Quebec. Gloves and neoprene booties are recommended to protect against sharp rocks. Use a diving mask with a good field of vision and a quality snorkel to remain discreet while observing the Unernak Chameleon.

If you ever need to handle an Unernak Chameleon, do so carefully to avoid removing its protective mucus. Use wet hands or gloves to briefly handle it. Release back into the water should be quick and gentle to minimize stress. Avoid taking it out of the water more than necessary.

The main predators of the Unernak Chameleon include larger fish like halibut and certain seabirds such as the gull, which can capture it when it ventures too close to the surface.

The Unernak Chameleon is not a threatened species in Quebec. Its population is stable, thanks to its habitat in cold waters and its discreet lifestyle. There is no specific regulation regarding it, but it is important to respect marine ecosystems in general, particularly by avoiding pollution and the destruction of rocky habitats.