Fin's Fish Guide
The Piano fangblenny (Plagiotremus tapeinosoma) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The piano fangblenny is a sabretooth blenny (Blenniidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a slender body with fine dark streaks, like piano keys. It boldly approaches larger fish and quickly nips off a piece of fin, scale or skin mucus, then darts into a burrow or empty tube. In the lower jaw it bears two large, grooved canine teeth; the bite can deliver venom. Handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Piano fangblenny?
The Piano fangblenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Piano fangblenny live?
The Piano fangblenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Kiribati, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan and others
How big does the Piano fangblenny get?
The Piano fangblenny grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Piano fangblenny dangerous to humans?
The Piano fangblenny is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Handle the fish carefully; the two enlarged canine teeth can give a venomous bite. For a bite: rinse the wound with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing. The pain and numbness usually subside on their own; for persistent symptoms or infection seek medical help.
Is the Piano fangblenny edible?
Yes, the Piano fangblenny is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Plagiotremus
More from the family Blenniidae
Want the complete picture on the Piano fangblenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Piano fangblenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.