Fin's Fish Guide
The Tompot blenny (Parablennius gattorugine) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Northeast Atlantic from the British Isles to the Mediterranean Sea, on shallow rocky coasts with seaweed growth.
Description
The tompot blenny is a sturdy, scaleless blenny of the family Blenniidae reaching about 30 cm. Characteristic is a conspicuous branched, tree-like skin flap (tentacle) above each eye; the brownish body shows a row of dark cross-bars. The species lives on shallow, weedy rocky shores and in tide pools of the north-eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, often hidden in crevices and under stones. It is curious and territorial and hunts small crustaceans, worms and other bottom life. The male defends a cavity and guards the eggs laid in it until they hatch. Because of its size and behaviour it is a favourite subject for divers and underwater photographers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tompot blenny?
The Tompot blenny has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Large blenny with a striking branched, tree-like skin flap (tentacle) above each eye and a row of dark vertical bars.
Where does the Tompot blenny live?
The Tompot blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic from the British Isles to the Mediterranean Sea, on shallow rocky coasts with seaweed growth.
How big does the Tompot blenny get?
The Tompot blenny grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Tompot blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Tompot blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tompot blenny edible?
The Tompot blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Tompot 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 Tompot blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tompot blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.