Fin's Fish Guide
The Crested sabre-tooth (Petroscirtes mitratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The floral blenny is a small blenny from the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Phoenix, Samoan and Tongan islands. The species grows to about 8.5 cm and has an elongate, speckled body with five to six dark blotches and a conspicuous crest on the head; the front dorsal rays are raised. It lives in shallow, sheltered lagoons with algae and seagrass, often solitary, and lays its eggs in empty shells. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Crested sabre-tooth?
The Crested sabre-tooth has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Striking crest on the head; elongated front dorsal fin rays; nests in empty shells
Where does the Crested sabre-tooth live?
The Crested sabre-tooth lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Crested sabre-tooth get?
The Crested sabre-tooth grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Crested sabre-tooth dangerous to humans?
No, the Crested sabre-tooth is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Crested sabre-tooth edible?
The Crested sabre-tooth is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Petroscirtes
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Crested sabre-tooth?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crested sabre-tooth is one of 12,519 species in the app.