Fin's Fish Guide
The Hairy blenny (Labrisomus nuchipinnis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labrisomidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Atlantic Ocean; on rocky and reef coasts of the eastern island groups and the western Atlantic coast from the United States to Brazil.
Description
The hairy blenny is a sturdy, bottom-dwelling fish of the family Labrisomidae reaching about 23 cm. The stout, brownish mottled body has a large head with conspicuous fringed tentacles above the eyes and on the nape, giving the species its name; males often bear a dark spot behind the head. The species lives on shallow rocky and reef shores in the Atlantic, both around the eastern island groups and along the western Atlantic coast. It shelters among stones and in crevices and hunts small crustaceans, molluscs and snails. It is a territorial species; the male guards the deposited eggs until they hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hairy blenny?
The Hairy blenny has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Sturdy rock-dweller with fringed tentacles above the eyes and on the nape, and in males a dark blotch behind the head.
Where does the Hairy blenny live?
The Hairy blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Atlantic Ocean; on rocky and reef coasts of the eastern island groups and the western Atlantic coast from the United States to Brazil.
How big does the Hairy blenny get?
The Hairy blenny grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Hairy blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Hairy blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hairy blenny edible?
The Hairy blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Hairy blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hairy 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 Labrisomus
More from the family Labrisomidae
Want the complete picture on the Hairy blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hairy blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.