Fin's Fish Guide
The Patagonian blennie (Eleginops maclovinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Eleginopsidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Around southern South America; coastal waters, estuaries and river mouths, also fresh water.
Description
The Patagonian blennie is the only species of the family Eleginopsidae, a notothenioid fish from the cold waters around southern South America. The species grows to about 90 cm and has an elongate, silver-grey body. It is euryhaline and lives in coastal waters, estuaries and river mouths, penetrating into fresh water. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, worms, crustaceans and algae. Notably it is a protandrous hermaphrodite: individuals begin as males and later change into females. The Patagonian blennie is a very important sport and food fish in Chile and Argentina. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Patagonian blennie?
The Patagonian blennie has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. The only species of its family; protandrous hermaphrodite (male becomes female), an important Patagonian sport fish.
Where does the Patagonian blennie live?
The Patagonian blennie lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Around southern South America; coastal waters, estuaries and river mouths, also fresh water.
How big does the Patagonian blennie get?
The Patagonian blennie grows to a maximum of about 90 cm.
Is the Patagonian blennie dangerous to humans?
No, the Patagonian blennie is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Patagonian blennie edible?
Yes, the Patagonian blennie is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Patagonian blennie?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Patagonian blennie is one of 12,519 species in the app.