Common name: Scale-eating fang blenny

Scientific name: Plagiotremus goslinei (Strasburg, 1956)
Hit And Run Blenny on a reef in the Red Sea egypt

General information

The Bluestriped Fangblenny, scientifically known as Plagiotremus goslinei, is a small, colorful fish that is a member of the Blenniidae family. This species is known for its striking blue stripes that run along the length of its body, contrasting against a yellowish-brown background. The Bluestriped Fangblenny has a notorious reputation for its mimicry behavior, where it imitates the cleaner wrasse to sneak up on other fish and nip their fins or scales.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
12 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy May nip at fins of other fish
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet; accepts most foods
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
No May nip at other fish
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be nippy towards tankmates
Captive bred
No
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Blennies
    Blenniidae
  6. Genus
    Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse
    Plagiotremus
  7. Species
    Scale-eating fang blenny
    Plagiotremus goslinei (Strasburg, 1956)
  8. Synonyms
    Runula goslinei Strasburg, 1956

Care

In the aquarium, Plagiotremus goslinei requires a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are generally hardy but can be aggressive towards other tank mates, especially smaller fish and other blennies. It's important to provide a varied diet that includes meaty foods and marine algae to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

Bluestriped Fangblennies are oviparous, with distinct pairing during breeding. They lay eggs in a secure location within the reef structure, which are then guarded by the male until they hatch. Breeding in captivity is not common, but with the right conditions, it can be achieved by experienced aquarists.

Habitat

Plagiotremus goslinei is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs, often seen at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters.