Chaenopsidae

sarcastic fringehead

Neoclinus blanchardi

Distinctive ruff surrounding the neck

• Tropical
• Regional distribution
• Marine fish
• Pacific Ocean
• North America
• Medium
• Tropical fish

The sarcastic fringehead (Neoclinus blanchardi) is a small but hardy saltwater tube-blenny that possesses a large mouth and aggressive territorial behavior, for which it has been given its common name. The term 'fringehead' reflects the distinctive ruff of tissue surrounding the fish's neck. The specific name honors Dr.