Shorthead Fangblenny

The Shorthead Fangblenny (Petroscirtes breviceps)

The Shorthead Fangblenny (Petroscirtes breviceps) is mildly venomous and cleverly mimics its more toxic relatives from the genus Meiacanthus. These cousins possess potent venom in their large saber-like teeth, making them highly undesirable to predators. In contrast, P. breviceps relies on its mild venom purely for self-defense.

This slender fish, reaching up to 11 cm in length, primarily feeds on algae and diatoms, which it scrapes off substrates. It often seeks shelter in small crevices, such as the necks of discarded beer bottles, and is commonly found in calm, sediment-rich bays.