Fin's Fish Guide
The Moth blenny (Ekemblemaria nigra) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaenopsidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The black blenny is a tube blenny (Chaenopsidae) from the western Atlantic. The species is small and has an elongate, dark, scaleless body with skin flaps (cirri) above the eyes. It lives on rocky reefs, where it takes refuge in abandoned tubeworm tubes and small holes, often with only the head protruding. From this shelter it snaps at passing zooplankton and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moth blenny?
The Moth blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Shelters in abandoned tube-worm tubes with only the head sticking out; cirri above the eyes.
Where does the Moth blenny live?
The Moth blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; coral and rocky reefs.
How big does the Moth blenny get?
The Moth blenny grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Moth blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Moth blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Moth blenny edible?
The Moth 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 Ekemblemaria
More from the family Chaenopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Moth blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Moth blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.