Horned Blenny

Parablennius intermedius

Horned Blenny is a small intertidal blenny of rocky shores, named for the paired horn-like head appendages seen in breeding males. It is a secretive algae- and detritus-grazer that shelters in crevices and tide pools.

Saltwater

Horned Blenny reference image — Sylke Rohrlach from Sydney, cc-by-sa, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Small blenny with a long low body and continuous dorsal fin
Paired horn-like tentacles above the eyes in mature males
Mottled brown to olive coloration that blends with algae-covered rock

Habitat

Rocky intertidal and shallow nearshore reefs, especially tide pools, boulder fields, and crevices with algal growth; typically on exposed coasts.

Bait notes

Not a targeted game fish. Small pieces of shrimp, mussel, or marine worm can take one incidentally; tiny soft plastics or fly patterns that imitate small benthic food may also work.

Behavior

Mostly sedentary and territorial, feeding by picking at algae, microinvertebrates, and detritus from rock surfaces; often retreats quickly into cracks when disturbed.

Caution

Handle carefully because it lives among sharp rocks and can be hard to remove from tight crevices; observe local intertidal protection rules where applicable. Not considered a food fish.

Fishing notes

If targeting for observation or capture, use very light tackle and small hooks around rock edges and tide pools; avoid deep baiting because they feed close to the substrate. Release promptly, as they are easily stressed.