African eel blenny
📖 Overview
African eel blenny (Haliophis guttatus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Pseudochromidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 15.5 cm. It occurs at depths between 1 and 15 metres. With a trophic level of 3.8, it is a mid-level predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 2; Dorsal soft rays (total): 41 - 46; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 33 - 39. Second dorsal spine imbedded in the flesh and visible only in X-ray or cleared and stained material. Preopercular pores 7; median posterior interorbital pore absent. Shoulder with a dark, ocellated spot. Fused fill membranes and isthmus.: eel-like; Cross section: circular.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for African eel blenny is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for African eel blenny is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for African eel blenny is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 1 - 15 m . Tropical; 31°N - 27°S east coast of Africa between Kenya and Mozambique, and the west coast of Madagascar.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"African eel blenny is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.7 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 96 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for African eel blenny has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haliophis maculatus | - | - | Synonym |
| Muraena guttata | Forsskål | 1775 | Synonym |
| Muraena maculata | Lacepède | 1800 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 2 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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