Cheilodipterus Nigrotaeniatus
📖 Overview
This species is apparently a Batesian mimic of the saber-toothed blenny Meiacanthus grammistes. Observed to swim in open water in a similar fashion as this blenny by using its tail to swim rather than the pectoral fins; but if approached, it quickly swims to the cover of reefs . Sexually mature between 6 to 6.5 cm. Solitary or in pairs (Ref 90102).
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 8. Body with 4 black stripes; uppermost extending from nape along dorsal-fin base to caudal-fin base; stripes broken to dots posteriorly on caudal peduncle and caudal-fin base; the head between stripes yellowish; fins pale. Developed gill rakers on hypobranchial 1-2; on ceratobranchial 8. Preopercular edge usually smooth, sometimes with several weak serrae at angle . Mimics Malacanthus species; only close examination reveals the different mouth shape and the apogonid has two separate dorsal fins, whilst the blenny has a long continuous single fin .: elongated; Cross section: oval.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Cheilodipterus Nigrotaeniatus is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Mouthbrooders . Distinct pairing during courtship and spawning .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 2 - 25 m . Tropical south to Australia and east to Solomon Islands.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Cheilodipterus Nigrotaeniatus.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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