Fin's Fish Guide
The Xestus sabretooth blenny (Petroscirtes xestus) is a saltwater fish of the family Blenniidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Cocos Is. (Keel), French Polynesia, Kiribati, Guam and others
Description
The xestus sabretooth blenny is a small blenny (Blenniidae) from coastal and reef-lagoon water of the western Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, yellow-brown body and two large, sabre-shaped canine teeth in the lower jaw. As a bottom-dweller it shelters in empty shells, tubes and crevices of shallow water and snaps at small invertebrates. When handled it can give a painful nip with its large canines; otherwise it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Xestus sabretooth blenny?
The Xestus sabretooth blenny has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly yellow-gold. Can bite with sharp teeth or powerful jaws; handle with care.
Where does the Xestus sabretooth blenny live?
The Xestus sabretooth blenny lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Cocos Is. (Keel), French Polynesia, Kiribati, Guam and others
How big does the Xestus sabretooth blenny get?
The Xestus sabretooth blenny grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Xestus sabretooth blenny dangerous to humans?
The Xestus sabretooth blenny can bite, but is otherwise not dangerous to humans. This small fish bites only when handled; its large canine teeth can give a painful nip. For a bite: clean with fresh water and cover with a sterile dressing if needed; symptoms usually subside on their own.
Is the Xestus sabretooth blenny edible?
Yes, the Xestus sabretooth blenny is commonly 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 Xestus sabretooth blenny?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Xestus sabretooth blenny is one of 12,519 species in the app.