Fin's Fish Guide
The Ringneck blenny (Parablennius pilicornis) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on shallow rocky coasts; also elsewhere in warm seas.
Description
The ringneck blenny is a small, scaleless rock fish of the family Blenniidae reaching about 13 cm. Above each eye the fish bears a small feathery skin flap; the colour is strikingly variable, occurring in dark, yellow and striped forms, sometimes with a dark band across the neck. The species lives on shallow rocky shores of the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, and is also found in other warm seas. As a bottom-dweller it grazes on algae and small invertebrates among the stones. The male defends a territory and guards the eggs laid in a cavity or crevice until they hatch. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance, but it is a common sight on rocky shores.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ringneck blenny?
The Ringneck blenny has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Variably coloured blenny with small feathered skin flaps above the eyes; occurs in dark, yellow and striped colour forms.
Where does the Ringneck blenny live?
The Ringneck blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, on shallow rocky coasts; also elsewhere in warm seas.
How big does the Ringneck blenny get?
The Ringneck blenny grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Ringneck blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Ringneck blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ringneck blenny edible?
The Ringneck blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Ringneck blenny and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Parablennius
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Ringneck blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ringneck blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.