Fin's Fish Guide
The Sabertooth blenny (Plagiotremus azaleus) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru and the Galapagos.
Description
The sabertooth blenny is a small, elongate blenny (Blenniidae) from the eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru and the Galapagos. The species reaches about 10 cm and has a blue, striped body with which it mimics the harmless rainbow wrasse. From empty worm-snail shells, where it peers out head-first, it joins loose groups of those wrasses and darts out to snatch bits of mucus, skin and scales from other fishes. The skin of larger fishes is the mainstay of its diet. The male guards the eggs in its shelter.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sabertooth blenny?
The Sabertooth blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Mimics the harmless rainbow wrasse and snatches mucus and skin from other fishes; shelters in empty worm tubes.
Where does the Sabertooth blenny live?
The Sabertooth blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru and the Galapagos.
How big does the Sabertooth blenny get?
The Sabertooth blenny grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Sabertooth blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Sabertooth blenny is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sabertooth blenny edible?
The Sabertooth blenny is not usually eaten.
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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 Sabertooth blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sabertooth blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.