Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded fringe blenny (Cirripectes variolosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The red-speckled blenny is a blenny (Blenniidae) from the Pacific Ocean. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a dark, scaleless body studded with red to orange speckles, to which the name refers, and crest-like skin flaps over the nape. It inhabits exposed seaward reefs, where it shelters at the bases or among the branches of Pocillopora corals. As a bottom dweller it grazes the growth layer of benthic algae from the reef. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded fringe blenny?
The Banded fringe blenny has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Red speckles and crest-like nuchal flaps; shelters among Pocillopora coral.
Where does the Banded fringe blenny live?
The Banded fringe blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Pacific Ocean; exposed seaward reefs.
How big does the Banded fringe blenny get?
The Banded fringe blenny grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Banded fringe blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded fringe blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded fringe blenny edible?
The Banded fringe blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cirripectes
More from the family Blenniidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded fringe blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.