The Smooth-fin Blenny (Ecsenius frontalis) is a species of fish belonging to the family Blenniidae. This relatively small fish is a common sight in tropical marine environments, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Description & Characteristics
The Smooth-fin Blenny, as its name suggests, possesses smooth, almost translucent fins. It typically reaches a maximum size of 8.0 cm. Their coloration is a blend of browns and tans, with a distinctive dark blotch on the dorsal fin. They have elongated bodies and large, prominent eyes.
Habitat and Occurrence
Ecsenius frontalis is found in a variety of marine habitats, predominantly in shallow, rocky reefs and coral environments. They are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to the Pacific Ocean. The Smooth-fin Blenny is a common resident of the reef flat, a shallow marine zone characterized by its proximity to the shoreline and diverse marine life. This species prefers a depth range of 3.0 to 27.0 meters.
Taxonomy
The species Ecsenius frontalis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Blenniiformes, and Family: Blenniidae. This classification places the Smooth-fin Blenny within the large and diverse group of blennies, a family of small, often brightly colored fish known for their distinctive protruding eyes and prominent, fleshy lips.
Feeding
Ecsenius frontalis is an herbivorous fish, primarily feeding on algae. Their diet consists of a variety of algae species, including lettuce, red slime algae, and other aquatic plants. Their feeding habits play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of their reef habitat.
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