Common name: Impostor fangblenny

General information

The Bluestriped Fangblenny, scientifically known as Plagiotremus phenax, is a small, colorful fish known for its distinctive blue stripes and fang-like teeth. It is a mimic species, resembling the cleaner wrasse in appearance, which allows it to approach other fish and nip at their fins or scales. This behavior is known as aggressive mimicry, a survival strategy where a predator mimics a harmless or beneficial species to gain an advantage over its prey.

Care

Bluestriped Fangblennies are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for a fish-only or reef aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding. They are known to be fin nippers, so they should not be kept with slow-moving or long-finned fish. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen and dried preparations, will keep them healthy and vibrant.

Reproduction

In the wild, Bluestriped Fangblennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and tending to the nests where females lay their eggs. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with a well-established pair, spawning may occur. The eggs are adhesive and will attach to the substrate or decor.

Symbiosis

While not forming a mutualistic symbiotic relationship like clownfish and anemones, the Bluestriped Fangblenny's mimicry of cleaner wrasses is a fascinating example of interspecies interaction. Their mimicry allows them to blend in with actual cleaner fish and take advantage of other fish seeking cleaning services.

Habitat

Bluestriped Fangblennies are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often seen darting in and out of crevices. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.