General Description

Compressed slender body with a long-based dorsal fin and pelvic fins each reduced to a spine and two rays. Males have a prominent fleshy crest on the head and elongate rays on the rear of the dorsal fin. Olive-green with black spots on side. Usually 6 cm long; up to 9 cm long (head to tail tip).

Biology

Oyster Blennies are common in estuaries where they usually occupy empty oyster or mussel shells. They are also found amongst encrusting worm tubes in the intertidal zone in southern Australia.

Distribution

New Zealand and eastern Australia, except Tasmania.

Habitat

Shallow shell beds, and areas with encrusting worm tubes, especially in bays and estuaries.

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