Fin's Fish Guide
The Eel blenny (Xiphasia setifer) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 53 cm.
Description
The hairtail blenny is a blenny (Blenniidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an extremely elongate, eel-like body with a long, low dorsal and anal fin and a pointed tail, unusual for a blenny. It lives on open soft and mud bottoms from shallow bays to deeper water, where it shelters in self-dug burrows. As a small predator it snaps small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eel blenny?
The Eel blenny has a snake-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Extremely eel-shaped blenny with a pointed tail; shelters in self-dug burrows in soft sediment.
Where does the Eel blenny live?
The Eel blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Indo-West Pacific; open soft and muddy bottoms.
How big does the Eel blenny get?
The Eel blenny grows to a maximum of about 53 cm.
Is the Eel blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Eel blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Eel blenny edible?
The Eel blenny is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Eel blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eel blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone