Ringneck blenny in black livery. Moma

Description:

The moma is the species Parablennius pilicornis, a marine fish of the blenny family. Its scientific name comes from the Greek: para (next to) + blennios (mucosity) + pilicornis (horns of hairs). The body of Parablennius pilicornis is elongated and somewhat laterally compressed, especially as its body runs. They can reach sizes up to 13 cm in length. One of the characteristics that differentiate this species from others within the family is the presence of short supraorbital appendages that form bundles of filaments that resemble an eyebrow, hence the specific epithet pilicornis. From its head, its large eyes located in the upper lateral part stand out, these being very mobile. The mouth is located in a lower position and has thick lips. The skin of Parablennius pilicornis, as in other blennies, is bare, that is, it lacks scales. Instead they secrete a mucous substance that makes them very slippery to the touch, which has given them the common name of slugs. Certain males during the breeding season adopt a livery with the entire body dark blue almost black.

Habitat:

I found this specimen among the rocks on the coast of La Manga (Murcia). He was very curious and kept chasing me.

Notes:

My video of Parablennius pilicornis in black livery: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfC_U-e3...