Microlipophrys nigriceps (Vinciguerra, 1883)

Scientific Naming

The black-headed blenny, scientifically named Microlipophrys nigriceps (Vinciguerra, 1883), has a thin, elongated body that reaches a maximum total length of 4 cm (1.6 in).

Head Morphology

It has a rounded head with large eyes positioned high on its sides.

Dorsal Fin Structure

It possesses a single dorsal fin supported by 12 spines and between 14 and 16 soft rays, with a notch separating the spiny portion of the fin from the soft-rayed portion.

Body Coloration

Its body background color is red-orange, with a black head and a greyish-blue reticulated pattern.

Fin Coloration

The fin rays are red-orange, with translucent fin membranes on all fins except the caudal fin, which is entirely red-orange.

Species Distribution

The black-headed blenny is distributed in the Mediterranean Sea, excluding the extreme western end of the sea and most of the North African coastline.

Habitat Preferences

This species lives in caves and crevices in areas shaded from sunlight, and can also be found in coral-growing areas.

Depth Range

It occurs at depths ranging from 0 to 6 m (0 to 20 ft).