Fin's Fish Guide
The Freshwater blenny (Salaria fluviatilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Fresh water of the Mediterranean region, in clear lakes, rivers and streams with a stony or gravel bottom.
Description
The freshwater blenny is one of the few blennies that lives in fresh water; this species of the family Blenniidae reaches about 15 cm. The stout, scaleless body is brownish with dark cross-bars and bluish speckles; males have a crest on the head. The species occurs in clear lakes, rivers and streams with a stony or gravelly bottom around the Mediterranean. As a bottom-dweller it shelters among stones and hunts insect larvae, snails and small crustaceans. The male defends a cavity under a stone and guards the eggs laid in it. Through loss and pollution of its habitat and through introduced predators many populations are under pressure.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freshwater blenny?
The Freshwater blenny is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. One of the few blennies that lives in fresh water; stocky, scaleless body with a crest or small comb on the head in males.
Where does the Freshwater blenny live?
The Freshwater blenny lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of the Mediterranean region, in clear lakes, rivers and streams with a stony or gravel bottom.
How big does the Freshwater blenny get?
The Freshwater blenny grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Freshwater blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Freshwater blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Freshwater blenny edible?
The Freshwater 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 Salaria
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Freshwater blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freshwater blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.