VU

Socorro Blenny

Hypsoblennius proteus

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Hypsoblennius proteus faces significant pressure from coastal development and habitat modification throughout its limited range in the Gulf of California. The species is particularly vulnerable to water quality degradation from agricultural runoff and urban pollution, which affects the shallow rocky reef environments it depends on for feeding and reproduction. Climate change-induced ocean warming and acidification pose additional threats to the delicate marine ecosystems this blenny inhabits.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic blenny inhabits shallow rocky reefs and tide pools in the Gulf of California, typically found at depths of 1-15 meters among crevices and coral formations. The species prefers areas with moderate water movement and abundant algal growth, which provides both food resources and shelter from predators.

Rocky areas· majorMarine neritic· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies recovery

Frequently asked questions

Why is Socorro Blenny classified as Vulnerable?
Socorro Blenny is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Hypsoblennius proteus faces significant pressure from coastal development and habitat modification throughout its limited range in the Gulf of California. The species is particularly vulnerable to water quality degradation from agricultural runoff and urban pollution, which affects the shallow rocky reef environments it depends on for feeding and reproduction. Climate change-induced ocean warming and acidification pose additional threats to the delicate marine ecosystems this blenny inhabits.
Where does Socorro Blenny live?
Socorro Blenny occurs in Mexico, and Panama. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Socorro Blenny?
The main threats to Socorro Blenny are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

Get weekly conservation intelligence

One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.

Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.