TAXONOMY
Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)
Order: Perciformes (Perch-likes)
Family: Blenniidae (Combtooth blennies

Genus/species: Meiacanthus grammistes

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GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS: Deep-bodied with a pointed snout and long continues dorsal fin. It is brown with tan wavy bands stretches the length of its body. On the dorsal fin near the head is a small blue spot. It grows to a size of 10 cm (4 inches) in length. Lined pattern on the body that ends in spots on the tail-fin base.

DISTRIBUTION/HABITAT: Western Pacific and Eastern Atlantic Ocean in sheltered lagoons and seaward reefs.

DIET IN THE WILD: DIET IN THE WILD: Omnivorous; small invertebrates and plant material. Remarks: About 50 blenny spp., including the 22 Meiacanthus spp., have evolved glands that produce venom and fangs to deliver it. The fangs are very large canines in the lower jaw that are grooved to inject venom when the fish bites, usually only in self-defense. Reports indicate that the fang blenny will bite the inside of a predator’s mouth and is quickly spit out.

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REPRODUCTION: Oviparous. Eggs are demersal and adhesive

Animal Attractions

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