Fin's Fish Guide
The Molly miller (Scartella cristata) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Warm parts of the Atlantic Ocean on both sides and the Mediterranean Sea, on shallow rocky coasts.
Description
The molly miller is a small, scaleless fish of the family Blenniidae reaching about 12 cm. It is characterised by a row of fringe-like skin flaps (cirri) running like a crest across the head between the eyes. The stout body is brownish to greenish and heavily mottled, excellent camouflage among stones and weeds. The species lives on shallow rocky shores and in tide pools of the warmer Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It is a bottom-dweller that shelters among stones and, as an omnivore, grazes on algae and small invertebrates. The male defends a territory and guards the eggs laid in a cavity or crevice until they hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Molly miller?
The Molly miller has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Blenny with a row of fringe-like skin lobes (cirri) like a crest over the head; inhabitant of tide pools.
Where does the Molly miller live?
The Molly miller lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Warm parts of the Atlantic Ocean on both sides and the Mediterranean Sea, on shallow rocky coasts.
How big does the Molly miller get?
The Molly miller grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Molly miller dangerous to humans?
No, the Molly miller is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Molly miller edible?
The Molly miller is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Molly miller and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Molly miller?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Molly miller is one of 12,519 species in the app.