Ringed Blenny

Ringed Blenny, Settling, ID Not Sure

ID Not Sure: The identification is a best guess but lacks enough confidence or supporting evidence.

Settling is when young marine life leaves the open ocean and moves onto the reef.

This is a settling Starksia blenny, likely a Ringed Blenny, but further review is necessary.

Name:	Ringed Blenny
Scientific Name:	Starksia hassi
Family:	Scaly Blennies
Scientific Family:	Labrisomidae
Source:	WoRMS AphiaID 276372
Size:	0.5 - 1.25 in.
Depth Range:	On the reef (10 – 60 ft.)
Sightings:	Seen sometimes

This Blenny has a red or pale body with rings encircling its body. It has small cirri above the eyes, on its nose, and on its head. Its fins are red and white banded.

The Ringed Blenny often hides inside sponges, particularly in Elongated Vase Sponges, and quickly retreats deeper when approached.