Redlip blenny
Ophioblennius atlanticus
(Valenciennes, 1836)
Description:
Body with long, thin ventral fins that are used to perch on the bottom. Head profile in front of the eyes vertical, forehead projects in front of the snout. Lips large, often with a reddish tint (O. atlanticus red lips). Typically, the head, body and anal fin are dark reddish brown and parts of the pectoral and tail fins red. But also bicolored or gray patterns are known (O. atlanticus).
Habitat:
Ophioblennus larvae are frequently taken pelagically over deep water. The adults are restricted to shallow waters, down to 8 m. They dwell among rocks and coral reefs, where there is considerable wave action. Territorial, will chase intruders away. They bite very severely, with its two very long and sharp canine teeth. Feeds on filamentous algae.
Distribution:
Common to occasional Florida, Bahamas and Caribbean.