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Bluethroat pikeblenny (Chaenopsis ocellata)

Photo of Bluethroat pikeblenny (Chaenopsis ocellata)

Key facts

Scientific name
Chaenopsis ocellata
Common name
Bluethroat pikeblenny
Category
Fish
Family
Chaenopsidae
Genus
Chaenopsis
Size
8–11 cm
Depth
1–30 m
IUCN status
Least concern (LC)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
seagrass, sand
Behaviours
solitary, cryptic, territorial
Ocean zones
Caribbean, Eastern Pacific

Description

Chaenopsis ocellata reaches 11 cm. Small extremely elongated filiform blenny resembling a jawfish, living in vertical tubes it occupies or creates in sands and seagrass. First dorsal with characteristic ocellus (dark spot ringed white) (hence ocellata) used for intimidation. Variable coloration beige-green-red according to environment. Lives from 1 to 30 m on seagrass, sand and muddy bottoms of Caribbean. Sticks head out of tube in upright posture, lightning retraction at slightest danger. Patient macro photo subject.

Photo of Bluethroat pikeblenny

Photo of Bluethroat pikeblenny (Chaenopsis ocellata)Photo of Bluethroat pikeblenny (Chaenopsis ocellata)

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Bluethroat pikeblenny?
Bluethroat pikeblenny (Chaenopsis ocellata) reaches 8–11 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Bluethroat pikeblenny?
Bluethroat pikeblenny is found between 1–30 m deep.
Is the Bluethroat pikeblenny dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Bluethroat pikeblenny?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Bluethroat pikeblenny?
Found in: Caribbean, Eastern Pacific.

Other species in the family Chaenopsidae

  • Acanthemblemaria maria - Secretary blenny
  • Emblemariopsis bahamensis - Bahama blenny
  • Stathmonotus stahli - Black blenny
  • Acanthemblemaria spinosa - Spinyhead blenny

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 280107)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2381405)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia