Family Clinidae (; from Greek: κλίνειν, translit. klínein, meaning 'to slope' or 'to incline') is a family of fishes commonly known as blennies or clinids. The first syllable is pronounced as [kl], with the [k] sound being followed by the [l] sound. The second syllable is pronounced as [i], with a long [i:] sound. The third syllable is pronounced as [neɪ], with a long [eɪ] sound, which indicates that the word ends in "-ae". The last syllable, "-idae", is pronounced as [ɪdi], with a short [ɪ] sound followed by [d] and [aɪ].
The Family Clinidae refers to a taxonomic family of marine fish belonging to the order Perciformes. Clinidae encompasses a diverse group of fish species commonly known as blennies or clinids. They are primarily found in temperate and tropical waters, inhabiting rocky coasts, reefs, and kelp forests.
Blennies of the Family Clinidae typically have elongated bodies with a slimy texture and a singular continuous dorsal fin running along their backs. Their coloration varies greatly depending on the species, ranging from various shades of brown to green or gray. Some species also exhibit intricate patterns or vibrant spots to aid in camouflage within their environments.
Family Clinidae encompasses numerous genera and species, each with its own distinct characteristics and adaptations. While most blennies are relatively small in size, ranging from a few centimeters to around 40 centimeters in length, members of this family can vary considerably in their physical attributes and behavior. Some species are known for their territoriality and aggressive nature, while others are more docile and form small social groups.
These fish are known to exhibit a range of feeding habits, including herbivory, carnivory, and omnivory, depending on their specific ecological niche. They often have well-developed teeth suited to their respective diets.
The Family Clinidae is ecologically significant, playing important roles in marine ecosystems by controlling the population of smaller invertebrates and competing for resources within their habitats. Additionally, some species are popular in the aquarium trade due to their unique appearances and manageable size.
The word "Clinidae" comes from the Greek words "klínein" meaning "to incline" or "to recline" and "-idae" indicating a family. Clinidae is a family of fish comprising various species commonly known as blennies. The name Clinidae refers to the tendency of these fishes to stay close to the bottom of the sea or incline towards rocky shores.