Istiblennius spilotus Springer & Williams, 1994
Spotted rockskipper
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Blenniidae (Combtooth blennies), subfamily: Salariinae
Max. size:  14 cm TL (male/unsexed); 9.7 cm SL (female)
Environment:  demersal; marine
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Pakistan and the Gulf of Oman to Natal, South Africa and Madagascar. Recently reported from Reunion (Ref. 53568).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 13-14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 16-19; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 17-19
Biology:  Adults occur along exposed rocky shores (Ref. 9962). Oviparous. Eggs are demersal and adhesive (Ref. 205), and are attached to the substrate via a filamentous, adhesive pad or pedestal (Ref. 94114). Larvae are planktonic, often found in shallow, coastal waters (Ref. 94114).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 27 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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