Fin's Fish Guide
The Freckled blenny (Hypsoblennius ionthas) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico; shallow coastal waters, oyster beds and hard structures.
Description
The freckled blenny is a small bottom fish of the combtooth blenny family (Blenniidae) from the western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with fine freckles and fringes (cirri) above the eyes. It inhabits shallow coastal waters, oyster beds, pilings and hard structures, where it shelters in cavities and empty shells. With short, chisel-like teeth it scrapes algae and film from the substrate; it is predominantly herbivorous. The male guards the eggs laid in a cavity. Owing to its small size the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freckled blenny?
The Freckled blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Fine freckles and fringes above the eyes; scrapes algae from oyster beds and pilings with chisel-shaped teeth.
Where does the Freckled blenny live?
The Freckled blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico; shallow coastal waters, oyster beds and hard structures.
How big does the Freckled blenny get?
The Freckled blenny grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Freckled blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Freckled blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Freckled blenny edible?
The Freckled blenny is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypsoblennius
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Freckled blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freckled blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.