Fin's Fish Guide
The Mailcheek blenny (Cirripectes chelomatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Tonga and others
Description
The Mailcheek blenny is a combtooth blenny (Blenniidae) from shallow reef water of the western Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a scaleless, stocky, brown-marbled body with a blunt head and a row of fine fringes (cirri) over the nape. With a mouth full of comb-like teeth it rasps algae and biofilm from coral and rocks. As a bottom-dweller it shelters in crevices and small holes. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mailcheek blenny?
The Mailcheek blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Mailcheek blenny live?
The Mailcheek blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Tonga and others
How big does the Mailcheek blenny get?
The Mailcheek blenny grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Mailcheek blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Mailcheek 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.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Mailcheek blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mailcheek 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 Cirripectes
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Mailcheek blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mailcheek blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.