Common Name: Belly blenny

Scientific Names: Parablennius sanguinolentus

Description: This little fish is a typical blenny in terms of its elongate, tapering shape, with a long dorsal (back) fin and steeply sloping head and prominent eyes, along with its habit of lying with its head end propped up on the two pelvic fins. Most in this area are up to 10cm long and have a very prominent belly. Typically a light olive in colour, speckled with blackish dashes (and a few white ones) all over the body.

Distinctive Features: Typical blenny shape, with a fat belly. Broken dark lines radiating out from the eye. Only in very shallow water.

Abundance: Mostly seen as individual fish, but often common at swimming entry points. They can be found at most sites if you look closely.

Habitat & Behaviour: This species is found in shallow water 0-3m deep in rocky habitats.

Reaction to Snorkellers & Divers: Shy and not keen on being approached or videoed by snorkelling.

Other Names: Rusty blenny

Other Notes: Often found on the steps on the shore as you are getting out (or in). There are a great variety of blennies found in the Mediterranean and many, like the Tompot (48,) have the same shape but more distinctive colours or head tentacles.

Text: Bob Earll
Photo: Luke Adshead
Video: Luke Adshead