[Full Text Link]
Who?
Family: Blennidae
Species: Ophioblennius atlanticus
Species ID: B.OA
Description: Small elongated fish with relatively large eyes (1), characteristic red lips (2) and reddish pectoral and dorsal fins (3). Body may be brownish black, pale gray, or have a brown front half with a pale gray rear (4). Sexes are similar in appearance. Juveniles resemble adults with the addition of faint vertical stripes
Maximum Size: 19 cm (7.5 in)
Longevity: 2 years
Status: Not currently on the IUCN endangered species list
Redlip Blenny & People: Not commercially fished, although when found in by-catch is often used as a bait fish. The redlip blenny is collected to some extent in the Caribbean for export in the aquarium trade
Where?
Geographical Range: Very common in shallow water throughout the Caribbean. Range extends north to Georgia, south to Brazil, and also found on reefs along the west coast of Africa
Coral Reef Zone: Common in the back reef, reef flat and sometimes even reef crest zone; may also occur in rocky shore zones. This species can tolerate high wave action because it has developed fins that help it hold on to the reef
Favourite Habitat: Redlip blennies prefer flat coral heads and encrusting coral algae with at least one shelter hole into which they can retreat
Depth Range: 0–8 m (0–27 ft)
A Day in the Life
Dawn: Courtship and spawning take place just after sunrise
Day: Blennies feed on their algal lawn and defend their territory
Dusk: Fish retire to shelters for the night
Night: Blennies hide in shelter holes to avoid nocturnal predators
Who Eats Who
The redlip blenny is a small fish with few defences, and as a result it is preyed upon by virtually any reef predator large enough to swallow it, including grouper and trumpetfish. The redlip blenny itself is strictly herbivorous, eating a variety of reef algae.
Scuba Diver & Snorkeler Best Practices
Participate in scientific underwater assessment projects. Science matters—advanced snorkelers may wish to participate in fish or coral censuses. Assessments such as these help scientists and marine managers take ‘the pulse’ of coral reefs. Not only will you experience the pleasure of snorkeling, but you will also know that you are helping advance knowledge of the ecosystem and aiding in its protection.
