Blennies
Ringneck blenny (Parablennius pilicornis)
The Ringneck blenny (Parablennius pilicornis) belongs to the family Blenniidae (blennies) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a herbivore and usually seen alone. It reaches about 8 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Quick facts
| Scientific name | Parablennius pilicornis |
|---|---|
| Family | Blennies (Blenniidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Bavosa cornuta |
| Common name (EN) | Ringneck blenny |
| Maximum size | 8 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Ringneck blenny belong to?
- The Ringneck blenny (Parablennius pilicornis) belongs to the family Blenniidae (blennies).
- Is the Ringneck blenny dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Ringneck blenny endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Ringneck blenny get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 8 cm.
Explore the Ringneck blenny in 3D in the interactive atlas →