Fin's Fish Guide
The Pirate blenny (Emblemaria piratula) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaenopsidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Pirate blenny is a tube blenny (Chaenopsidae) from shallow reef and rocky water of the western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a very slender, scaleless body with a pointed head, cirri above the eyes and a long, spiny dorsal fin. As a bottom-dweller it lives in an abandoned worm tube or empty snail shell, from which only its head protrudes, and snaps at passing zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pirate blenny?
The Pirate blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Lives in empty shells and tubes with only the head sticking out; the male has a high first dorsal fin.
Where does the Pirate blenny live?
The Pirate blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; rocky and coral reefs, in shells and holes.
How big does the Pirate blenny get?
The Pirate blenny grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Pirate blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Pirate blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pirate blenny edible?
The Pirate blenny is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Emblemaria
More from the family Chaenopsidae
Want the complete picture on the Pirate blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pirate blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone