Fin's Fish Guide
The Adriatic blenny (Microlipophrys adriaticus) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Mediterranean Sea, especially the Adriatic Sea, on shallow rocky shores and in tide pools.
Description
The Adriatic blenny is a very small, scaleless rock fish of the family Blenniidae reaching about 5 cm. The brownish body bears a few dark cross-bars and has a steep, rounded head without the skin flaps that many other blennies have. The species lives on shallow rocky shores and in tide pools of the Mediterranean, especially the Adriatic Sea. As a bottom-dweller it grazes algae and seeks small crustaceans and invertebrates among the stones. Breeding males are more boldly marked than females and defend a cavity or crevice, in which they guard the clutch laid by the female until it hatches. Because of its minuscule size and hidden lifestyle it is rarely noticed and has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Adriatic blenny?
The Adriatic blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Very small, scaleless rock fish with a steep head without skin flaps and a few dark vertical bars across the flank.
Where does the Adriatic blenny live?
The Adriatic blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Mediterranean Sea, especially the Adriatic Sea, on shallow rocky shores and in tide pools.
How big does the Adriatic blenny get?
The Adriatic blenny grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Adriatic blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Adriatic blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Adriatic blenny edible?
The Adriatic blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Adriatic blenny and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Microlipophrys
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Adriatic blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Adriatic blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.