Lepidoblennius
Lepidoblennius is a genus of combtooth blennies, marine fish in the family Blenniidae. The genus comprises 14 recognized species, distributed throughout the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the western Indian Ocean. These blennies are known for their elongated, cylindrical bodies and their characteristic comb-like teeth. They are often found in rocky intertidal zones, coral reefs, and seagrass beds, where they graze on algae and other invertebrates.
Common Names
Common names for species in the genus Lepidoblennius include:
- Combtooth blenny
- Scaled blenny
- Rock blenny
Characteristics
Lepidoblennius species share a number of distinctive features, including:
- Elongated, cylindrical body
- Small, rounded head
- Large, prominent eyes
- Comb-like teeth in both jaws
- Scales covering the body
- Single dorsal fin with a distinct notch or separation
- Small pelvic fins
- Varied coloration patterns, often with stripes or spots
Environments
Lepidoblennius species are generally found in shallow, coastal waters, often in association with rocky shores, reefs, and seagrass beds. They are adapted to a variety of habitats, including:
- Intertidal zones
- Rocky shores
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass beds
References
For more information about Lepidoblennius, please refer to the following resources: