Spinyhead Blenny

Spinyhead Blenny, Newly Settled

Spinyhead Blenny, Newly Settled

Newly Settled marine organisms have just arrived on the reef. They are still small and vulnerable and may not yet resemble adults.

Name: Spinyhead Blenny
Scientific Name: Acanthemblemaria spinosa
Family: Tube Blennies
Taxonomic: Chaenopsidae
ID Group: Blennies
Size: 0.75 - 1 in.
Depth Range: On the reef (10 – 60 ft.)
Sightings: Seen many times

The Blenny has small, short spines on its head, giving it a 'spiny' appearance. Its eyes are yellow-green, and there are small, sometimes branched cirri above the eyes. The snout is speckled with tiny blue spots, and a dark mark is often visible just behind the eyes.

The Spinyhead Blenny lives in empty worm tubes within coral, with its head sticking out. When small bits of food drift by, it darts out to grab them before quickly retreating into its hiding place.