Fin's Fish Guide
The Sabertooth blenny (Petroscirtes variabilis) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The variable sabretooth blenny is a small blenny from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an elongate, scaleless body with a variable, mottled colour pattern and a pair of large, sabre-like canines in the lower jaw. As a dweller of shallow coastal and reef water it shelters in empty shells, tubes and cavities and feeds on small benthic life and algae. It uses the large teeth mainly for defence. The fish is largely harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sabertooth blenny?
The Sabertooth blenny has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Large sabre-shaped canine teeth (mainly for defence); shelters in shells and 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. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Sabertooth blenny get?
The Sabertooth blenny grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Sabertooth blenny dangerous to humans?
No, the Sabertooth blenny 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 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 Petroscirtes
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.