Hypsoblennius ionthas


Hypsoblennius ionthas, commonly known as the freckled blenny, is a species of combtooth blenny found in the western Atlantic Ocean.

Description

This species grows to a length of TL. it has an elongate body with long anal and dorsal fins. It has small, chisel-like teeth that are useful for consuming algae from tough surface. It ranges in color from yellowish to green brown.

Distribution

The species ranges from North Carolina in the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico and Aransas Bay, Texas. It generally enjoys inhabiting shallow bays and estuaries, dwelling in oyster reefs. It seems to prefer harder bottoms and waters with less salinity. It is more common than the feather blenny along the Gulf Coast.