Hutchins' Blenny

Cirripectes hutchinsi

Hutchins' Blenny is a reef-associated fish found in the eastern Indian Ocean, specifically around Western Australia from North West Cape to Rottnest Island. It inhabits coral reefs and is commonly found in the surge zone within limestone holes just below the intertidal range. The species can reach up to 10.6 cm in length and is characterized by its fusiform body shape and oval cross-section. It has a distinctive dorsal fin with 12-13 spines and 13-14 soft rays, and an anal fin with 2 spines and 15-16 soft rays. The blenny's background color is typically brown, with a yellow to orange iris, and shows geographic variation in females' color patterns. Hutchins' Blenny is oviparous, with distinct pairing during breeding. The eggs are demersal and adhesive, attaching to the substrate via a filamentous pad. The larvae are planktonic and often found in shallow coastal waters. Divers may encounter this species in areas where Pocillopora damicornis is present on the reefs. It is harmless to humans and holds no interest for fisheries. The conservation status of Hutchins' Blenny is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Divers exploring the reefs of Western Australia may have the opportunity to observe this species, especially in areas with abundant coral growth.