Fin's Fish Guide
The Scartichthys variolatus is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Endemic to the oceanic islands off Chile (Desventuradas Islands and Juan Fernandez Archipelago).
Description
Scartichthys variolatus is a blenny (Blenniidae) from the southeastern Pacific, endemic to the oceanic islands off Chile (Desventuradas and Juan Fernandez). The species reaches about 16 cm and has a blunt head profile with a small, comb-toothed mouth with which it grazes algae from rocks. It inhabits shallow rocky bottoms in the coastal intertidal zone. It is a territorial bottom dweller. The adhesive demersal eggs are attached to the substrate with a fibrous pad and guarded by the parent; the larvae are planktonic and occur in shallow coastal water. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scartichthys variolatus?
The Scartichthys variolatus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Comb-shaped teeth for grazing algae off rocks; guards sticky demersal eggs.
Where does the Scartichthys variolatus live?
The Scartichthys variolatus lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to the oceanic islands off Chile (Desventuradas Islands and Juan Fernandez Archipelago).
How big does the Scartichthys variolatus get?
The Scartichthys variolatus grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Scartichthys variolatus dangerous to humans?
No, the Scartichthys variolatus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Scartichthys variolatus edible?
The Scartichthys variolatus is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
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Status & sources
Same genus Scartichthys
More from the family Blenniidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scartichthys variolatus is one of 12,519 species in the app.