Black-Headed Blenny

Microlipophrys nigriceps

The Black-headed Blenny is a small marine fish found exclusively in the Mediterranean Sea. It features a thin, elongated body with a maximum length of 4.3 cm. Its most distinctive characteristic is the black head, which contrasts with its red-orange body adorned with a greyish-blue reticulated pattern. The dorsal fin, separated into spiny and soft-rayed parts by a notch, and the caudal fin are also red-orange, with translucent membranes on the other fins. This blenny inhabits caves and crevices in dimly lit areas, often in regions with corals, at depths ranging from 0 to 6 meters. It is a diurnal species, active during the day, and primarily feeds on small sessile invertebrates and algae, with a minor diet of harpacticoids. The Black-headed Blenny is oviparous, with eggs that are demersal and adhere to substrates via a filamentous pad. The larvae are planktonic, typically found in shallow coastal waters. Divers encountering the Black-headed Blenny may find it in shaded, rocky environments. It is harmless to humans and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. This species is also of commercial interest for aquariums.