Fin's Fish Guide
The Black blenny (Enchelyurus ater) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The black blenny is a small combtooth blenny from the Pacific, ranging from the Coral Sea to the Tuamotu Islands. It grows to about 5.5 cm and has an elongate, dark brown to black body, sometimes with a faint reticular or barred pattern, and conspicuous yellow pectoral fins. The dorsal, anal and caudal fins are confluent. It lives on shallow coral reefs between 1 and 10 metres depth and feeds on small invertebrates. The eggs are adhesive and laid on the bottom. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black blenny?
The Black blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Dark body with yellow pectoral fins; the dorsal, anal and caudal fins run into one another
Where does the Black blenny live?
The Black blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western and central Pacific
How big does the Black blenny get?
The Black blenny grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Black blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Black blenny is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Black blenny edible?
The Black blenny is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enchelyurus
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Black blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.