Blenny facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blennies |
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Blennioidei
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A blenny is a fascinating type of fish that lives in the ocean. These small fish belong to a large group called Blennioidei. There are over 800 different kinds of blennies found all around the world! They are known for their unique looks and interesting behaviors.
What are Blennies?
Blennies are part of a big family of fish called teleosts. This group includes many common fish species. Blennies are usually quite small. They are often found in shallow waters, especially near rocky areas or coral reefs. They are very good at hiding and blending in with their surroundings.
What Do Blennies Look Like?
Blennies have some special features that make them easy to spot.
- Body Shape: They usually have long bodies. Some blennies even look a bit like small eels!
- Eyes and Mouth: They have relatively large eyes and mouths. This helps them see and catch their food.
- Fins: Their top fin, called the dorsal fin, is long and goes along most of their back. Their bottom fins, called pelvic fins, are short and thin. Their tail fin is usually rounded.
- Cirri: Many blennies have special whisker-like growths on their heads. These are called cirri. Scientists think these cirri might help blennies sense their environment or blend in with their surroundings.
Where Do Blennies Live?
Blennies are known as benthic fish. This means they spend most of their time on or near the sea floor. They love to hide in cracks, crevices, and small holes in rocks or coral. This helps them stay safe from predators. They are often seen darting around the bottom, looking for food. Blennies are quite similar in shape to another type of fish called gobies. Both blennies and gobies are small, bottom-dwelling fish.
Images for kids
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