Fin's Fish Guide
The Pen-point blenny (Apodichthys flavidus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pholidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The penpoint gunnel is an elongate, eel-like fish from the northeastern Pacific, ranging from Kodiak in Alaska to southern California. It grows to about 46 cm and has a strongly compressed, ribbon-like body with a very long dorsal fin made up entirely of spines. The colour is strikingly variable, from green through brown to red, often matching the surrounding seaweed. The fish lives in the intertidal zone among stones and seaweed and can survive out of water for a while at low tide, breathing partly through its skin. Both parents guard the adhesive egg mass. The IUCN has not evaluated the species (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pen-point blenny?
The Pen-point blenny has a snake-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Very long dorsal fin consisting entirely of spines; survives low tide among seaweeds and breathes partly through the skin
Where does the Pen-point blenny live?
The Pen-point blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Pacific
How big does the Pen-point blenny get?
The Pen-point blenny grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Pen-point blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Pen-point 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.
Is the Pen-point blenny edible?
The Pen-point 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 Apodichthys
More from the family Pholidae
Want the complete picture on the Pen-point blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pen-point blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.