Fin's Fish Guide
The Pirate blenny (Emblemaria piratica) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaenopsidae that grows up to 4 cm.
North America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and others
Description
The pirate blenny is a small tube blenny (Chaenopsidae) from shallow reef water of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, elongate body with a pointed head; the male has a tall, sail-like dorsal fin. It occupies an abandoned worm tube or bore hole, projects only its head and snaps at passing zooplankton; males flare their dorsal fin in courtship display. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pirate blenny?
The Pirate blenny has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Pirate blenny live?
The Pirate blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. North America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and others
How big does the Pirate blenny get?
The Pirate blenny grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Pirate blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Pirate 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
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Emblemaria
More from the family Chaenopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Pirate blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pirate blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.