Fin's Fish Guide
The Shanny (Lipophrys pholis) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the western Mediterranean Sea, in tide pools and on shallow rocky coasts.
Description
The shanny is a smooth, scaleless blenny of the family Blenniidae reaching about 17 cm. Unlike many related blennies this species lacks feathery tentacles above the eyes; the stout body is brownish to greenish and mottled, usually with a dark spot on the front part of the dorsal fin. The species is a common inhabitant of tide pools and shallow rocky shores of the north-eastern Atlantic, the North Sea and the western Mediterranean. It grazes on barnacles, small crustaceans and weeds. At low tide it can survive for a while out of water, staying moist under stones and weeds. The male defends a cavity and guards the eggs until they hatch. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Shanny?
The Shanny has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Smooth, scaleless blenny without tentacles above the eyes; brownish marbled with a dark blotch on the front dorsal fin.
Where does the Shanny live?
The Shanny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic and the western Mediterranean Sea, in tide pools and on shallow rocky coasts.
How big does the Shanny get?
The Shanny grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Shanny dangerous to humans?
No, the Shanny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Shanny edible?
The Shanny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Shanny 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 Lipophrys
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Shanny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Shanny is one of 12,519 species in the app.