Fin's Fish Guide
The Yarrell's blenny (Chirolophis ascanii) is a saltwater fish of the family Stichaeidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the North Sea, on rocky and stony bottoms from shallow to moderately deep water, often hidden in crevices.
Description
Yarrell's blenny is an elongate, eel-like fish of the family Stichaeidae reaching about 25 cm. Above the eyes and at the front of the back it carries conspicuous, branched skin flaps (cirri), which give it a 'crested' look; the long, continuous dorsal fin consists of spines and is marked with dark cross-bars. The brown-red body blends well against rocks and weeds. The species lives on rocky and stony bottoms of the north-eastern Atlantic and the North Sea, from shallow to moderate depths, often hidden in crevices and holes. On the bottom it hunts small crustaceans, molluscs and echinoderms. In winter the egg mass, rolled into a ball, is guarded in a cavity. Because of its hidden lifestyle it is rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yarrell's blenny?
The Yarrell's blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Elongate, eel-like fish with branched skin flaps (cirri) above the eyes and at the front of the back, and dark vertical bars across the long dorsal fin.
Where does the Yarrell's blenny live?
The Yarrell's blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northeast Atlantic and the North Sea, on rocky and stony bottoms from shallow to moderately deep water, often hidden in crevices.
How big does the Yarrell's blenny get?
The Yarrell's blenny grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Yarrell's blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Yarrell's blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yarrell's blenny edible?
The Yarrell's blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Yarrell's 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 Chirolophis
More from the family Stichaeidae
Want the complete picture on the Yarrell's blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yarrell's blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.