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Uncombed blenny (Haptoclinus apectolophus) — Labrisomidae

Uncombed blenny

Haptoclinus apectolophus
Family: Labrisomidae

The Uncombed blenny (Haptoclinus apectolophus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labrisomidae that grows up to 3 cm.

Length
2.5 cm
Water
Saltwater
Depth
174–366 m
Body shape
Elongated (eel-like)
Substrate
Mixed bottom
Danger
Harmless
Range
North America: Mexico

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Description

The uncombed blenny is a tiny labrisomid blenny (Labrisomidae) from deeper coral reefs of the Caribbean Sea. The species grows to only about 3 cm and has a slender, reddish body with fine markings and a dorsal fin split into four parts. As a cryptic bottom-dweller it shelters in crevices and cavities of the reef and snaps at minute crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.

Frequently asked questions

How do you recognise the Uncombed blenny?

The Uncombed blenny has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly red-orange.

Where does the Uncombed blenny live?

The Uncombed blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America: Mexico

How big does the Uncombed blenny get?

The Uncombed blenny grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.

Is the Uncombed blenny dangerous to humans?

No, the Uncombed blenny is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.

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All data

Identification

English name
Uncombed blenny sourced
Scientific name
Haptoclinus apectolophus
Family
Labrisomidae

Appearance

Size class
Small verified
Max length (cm)
2.5 verified
Body shape
Elongated (eel-like) sourced
Dominant colour
Red / orange sourced
Tail shape
Rounded

Habitat & distribution

Water type
Saltwater sourced
Substrate
Mixed bottom sourced
Min depth (m)
174 verified
Max depth (m)
366 verified
Natural range
North America: Mexico sourced
Origin
Native

Behaviour & biology

Territorial
Yes
Reproduction
Separate sexes
Sexual dimorphism
No
Seasonality
Present year-round in its habitat; no pronounced seasonality known.

For anglers

Fishing method
Small in size and barely an angling target; mostly caught incidentally or as baitfish.
Regulations source

Safety

Danger to humans
Harmless verified
First aid
This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status. verified

Status & sources

Sources
FishBase via GBIF (DwC-A), CC-BY-NC 4.0

More from the family Labrisomidae

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