Fin's Fish Guide
The Dalmatian blenny (Microlipophrys dalmatinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on very shallow rocky shores in the surf.
Description
The Dalmatian blenny is a very small, scaleless rock fish of the family Blenniidae reaching about 6 cm. The stout body is brownish with dark cross-bars; breeding males colour strikingly, with a blue throat and orange tints. The species lives in the very shallow, turbulent surf zone on rocky shores of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, sheltering among stones and in crevices. As a bottom-dweller it grazes on algae and small invertebrates. The male defends a cavity and guards the eggs laid in it until they hatch. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance, but it is a typical inhabitant of the Mediterranean rocky shore.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dalmatian blenny?
The Dalmatian blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Very small rock blenny; males in spawning condition develop a blue throat and orange tints with dark vertical bars.
Where does the Dalmatian blenny live?
The Dalmatian blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on very shallow rocky shores in the surf.
How big does the Dalmatian blenny get?
The Dalmatian blenny grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Dalmatian blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Dalmatian blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dalmatian blenny edible?
The Dalmatian blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Dalmatian 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 Dalmatian blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dalmatian blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.