Plagiotremus phenax Smith-Vaniz, 1976
Imposter fangblenny
Plagiotremus phenax
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Blenniidae (Combtooth blennies), subfamily: Blenniinae
Max. size:  8 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 10 m
Distribution:  Indian Ocean.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 7-8; Dorsal soft rays (total): 27-29; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 20-23. Pale grey body, dorsal fin with black submarginal stripe. Pectoral rays typically 12; large curved canine tooth posteriorly on side of lower jaw; interorbital pores 1-2; body depth about 8.0 in SL. Maximum size to 5.1 cm TL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Adults are found solitary in coastal, lagoon, and outer reefs, 1-10 m deep (Ref. 90102). Oviparous. Eggs are demersal and adhesive (Ref. 205), and are attached to the substrate via a filamentous, adhesive pad or pedestal (Ref. 94114). Larvae are planktonic, often found in shallow, coastal waters (Ref. 94114). A mimic of Meiacanthus smithi (Ref. 9710).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 27 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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