Description

Also known as Coral Blenny, Gold-spotted Rockskipper, Orange-spotted Blenny, Redspot Flymo Blenny, Red-spotted Rockskipper, Reef Blenny, Rock Blenny, Rockskippper.

Found singly or in small schools, usually seen with just their heads protruding from holes, over clear coastal reef flats, of surge swept seaward reefs, rich in algae growth.
They feed on algae, detritus, and small invertebrates.
Length - 13cm
Depth - 0-6m
Widespread Indo-Pacific

Combtooth Blennies are the largest family of blennies, found in both tropical and subtropical waters and freshwater habitats, as the name suggests they have comb like teeth lining their jaws.

Mimicry: Red Spotted Blennies are known for their remarkable ability to mimic other fish species, particularly the cleaner wrasses. They imitate the behaviour and coloration patterns of cleaner wrasses to trick larger fish into thinking they are harmless cleaners. This mimicry allows them to get close to potential prey or avoid being attacked by predators.

Acrobatic Jumpers: Red Spotted Blennies are exceptional jumpers. They have strong Pectoral fins that allow them to leap out of the water and "skip" across the surface, scraping algae from the surface of dead corals as they go.

Males and Their Harems: Red Spotted Blennies exhibit a polygynous mating system, where a dominant male establishes a territory and attracts a harem (group) of females. The males will then guard and defend his chosen nesting site, where the females lay their eggs. The larger and more brightly coloured the male, the more likely he is to attract multiple females. Despite attracting multiple mates, the females do not typically engage in direct competition or arguments over males but rather select a male based on the quality of the male's territory and behaviour.

Reproduction: Red Spotted Blennies are oviparous, which means they reproduce by laying eggs. During breeding, males develop a briger coloration and exhibit territorial behaviour, guarding their chosen nesting site. Females lay adhesive eggs within the male's chosen next and the males guard and aerate the eggs until they hatch.

Shy Yet Curious: Red Spotted Blennies are shy creatures and may quickly retreat into crevices or hide when approached. However, they also have a curious nature and will often peek out of their hiding places to observe their surroundings.

Notable Personalities: Red Spotted Blennies are known for their individual personalities. Some may be bolder and more outgoing, while others may be more timid and prefer to stay hidden. For this reason, they are a favourite amongst divers who often enjoy observing them in their natural habitats. Ref: https://www.fishbase.de/summary/6047