Banda Blenny

Ecsenius bandanus

The Banda Blenny is a small reef-associated fish found in the coral reefs of the western Pacific Ocean, specifically around Indonesia and the northwestern coast of New Guinea. It can be identified by its elongated body and distinctive dorsal fin structure, which includes 11 to 13 spines and 13 to 15 soft rays. The anal fin is equipped with 2 spines and 15 to 17 soft rays. This species reaches a maximum length of 3.4 cm, making it a relatively small inhabitant of its reef environment. Banda Blennies are typically found at depths ranging from 2 to 15 meters, where they inhabit outer slopes and coastal reefs. They are often seen living on rocks and corals, either alone or in small groups. The species is oviparous, with eggs that are demersal and adhesive, attaching to substrates via a filamentous pad. The larvae are planktonic and can be found in shallow coastal waters. For divers, encountering a Banda Blenny can be a subtle experience due to their small size and preference for blending into their coral-rich surroundings. While they may not be the most conspicuous fish on the reef, their presence adds to the biodiversity of the ecosystem. The IUCN has assessed the Banda Blenny as Least Concern.