Dr. Chuck Blend at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History’s laboratory.
When most people imagine ocean exploration, they picture sleek dolphins, coral gardens, or perhaps a giant squid. But for Dr. Charles “Chuck” K. Blend, some of the most fascinating stories in the deep are told by creatures much smaller — and sometimes squirmier.
Chuck is a Resident Scholar and Professor in Parasitology and Deep-Sea Biology at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, and a Research Associate at the Harold W. Manter Laboratory of Parasitology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. With over 90 scientific publications, 60+ new species of parasitic worms described, and even a genus and three species named in his honor, Chuck’s work uncovers the hidden biodiversity of the ocean’s twilight zones.
“I use FishBase almost every day,” he says. “Like any resource you rely on, you should help keep it going — especially when it’s non-profit. That’s why I contribute to FishBase.”
Hooked on the Humpback Anglerfish
Among Chuck’s many connections to FishBase, one stands out: he sponsors the FishBase page for the Humpback anglerfish, a deep-sea predator with a face only a parasitologist could love. “I love ceratioids,” he says, “and Melanocetus johnsonii is my favorite fish in the sea.”
But his contributions run deeper. Chuck regularly sends copies of his research papers to FishBase, ensuring that the biology and ecology of deep-sea fishes — and their often-overlooked parasites — are accessible to researchers worldwide.
Why FishBase and SeaLifeBase Matter
For Chuck, FishBase is not just a tool; it’s an essential part of the scientific system.
“Nowhere else can I get, quickly and at a glance, taxonomic, ecological, and biological information on just about any fish I’m working with — especially deep-sea species,” he explains. “It’s convenient, easy to use, and recognized globally as a valid and accurate source.”
He also sees a bright future for both FishBase and SeaLifeBase: expanding content in sections like trophic ecology, ecology, life cycles, and physiology — transforming an already vast database into an even more comprehensive “all-in-one” ocean biodiversity reference.
“FishBase is and will continue to be ‘The Bible for Fish”.
Beyond Science — A Storyteller at Heart
Dr. Chuck Blend with his wife Christy and ‘Neutron,’ his alien and intergalactic explorer friend.
Chuck’s scientific expertise is matched by his passion for sharing knowledge. Whether giving museum planetarium shows (sometimes alongside “Neutron,” his puppet alien co-host), teaching deep-sea biology, or telling stories as a certified Maggid (Jewish storyteller), he inspires curiosity across ages.
His anniversary wish for FishBase and SeaLifeBase is as heartfelt as it is simple:
“Continued good health, happiness, and ongoing success — for another
35 and 20 years, respectively!”
From parasites in the Gulf of Mexico to hydrothermal vents in the Pacific, Chuck’s work reminds us that every layer of ocean life — from apex predators to microscopic hitchhikers — has a role in the story of our seas. And with passionate collaborators like him, FishBase and SeaLifeBase will keep telling those stories for decades to come.