Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackbelly blenny (Stathmonotus hemphillii) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaenopsidae that grows up to 5 cm.
North America: Bahamas, Belize, Virgin Is. (UK), Haiti, Honduras, Mexico and others
Description
The blackbelly blenny is a small, eel-like blenny (Labrisomidae) from shallow reef water of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a strongly elongate, scaleless body with a long dorsal and anal fin and a pointed head with small skin fringes. As a bottom-dweller it creeps among calcareous algae, coral rubble and seagrass and snaps at tiny crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackbelly blenny?
The Blackbelly blenny has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Blackbelly blenny live?
The Blackbelly blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Bahamas, Belize, Virgin Is. (UK), Haiti, Honduras, Mexico and others
How big does the Blackbelly blenny get?
The Blackbelly blenny grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Blackbelly blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackbelly 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 Blackbelly blenny edible?
Yes, the Blackbelly blenny is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Blackbelly blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbelly blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stathmonotus
More from the family Chaenopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackbelly blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbelly blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.