Common name: Xestus sabretooth blenny

General information

The Bluestriped Fangblenny, scientifically known as Petroscirtes xestus, is a small, colorful fish known for its distinctive blue stripes and fang-like teeth. It belongs to the family Blenniidae, which is characterized by their comb-like teeth and a preference for dwelling near the substrate. These blennies are notorious for their mimicry behavior, often resembling cleaner wrasses in appearance and behavior to deceive other fish and take a nip at their fins or scales.

Care

Bluestriped Fangblennies are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in captivity. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing on microalgae. It's important to provide a varied diet that includes meaty foods and marine algae to maintain their health. Caution should be exercised when housing them with other small, peaceful fish, as they may exhibit fin-nipping behavior.

Reproduction

In the wild, Bluestriped Fangblennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging, and a separate breeding tank is recommended to protect the eggs and raise the fry.

Symbiosis

While not involved in mutualistic symbiotic relationships like clownfish and anemones, Bluestriped Fangblennies are known for their aggressive mimicry. They imitate the behavior and appearance of cleaner wrasses, which allows them to approach other fish and feed on their tissue, often without being detected as a threat.

Habitat

Bluestriped Fangblennies are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often seen darting in and out of crevices in search of food or shelter.