COMMON MARINE FISHES 



119 



BLENNY-EEL 

 Cebidicbthys violaceus 



Relationship: One of the northern blennies, belonging to family Cebidichthyidae. 

 Not a true eel. 



Distinguishing Characters: The absence of ventral fins; the single lateral line 

 with short branches ; the pectoral fins which are longer than the eye ; the very long 

 dorsal fin with both spines and soft rays; the anal fin with two spines at tlie front; 

 the short head which often has a fleshy hump on top. Length to about 30 inches. 

 Color: Dull green or brownish green, mottled, and becoming paler below. Sides often 

 with scattered orange or reddish spots in life. 



Distribution: The coast of California. Common in the intertidal zone in the 

 northern and central part of the State. Reported only twice from south of Santa 

 Barbara County. 



Fishing Season: Throughout the year, subject to bag and size limits in some 

 places. Consult fish and game laws. 



Importance: Rarely enters the commercial catch. A minor sport fish. 



Fishing Gear: A specially made stick with a baited hook at the end; hook and 

 line ; accidentally in trawls. 



