Manyspot Blenny

Laiphognathus multimaculatus

The Manyspot Blenny, a member of the combtooth blenny family, is found in the western Pacific and Indian Oceans. This small fish reaches a maximum length of 4 centimeters. It has an elongated, compressed body with a pale coloration and distinctive small black spots. The head is small and lacks crests, and the species is characterized by elongated seventh and eighth dorsal fin spines, along with two cirri on the anterior nostril rim. Inhabiting tropical marine environments, the Manyspot Blenny is typically found in shoreline reefs and sheltered lagoons at depths ranging from 2 to 8 meters. Its distribution extends from East Africa to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, and it is also likely to occur in the Seychelles. This blenny is oviparous, with eggs that are demersal and adhesive, attaching to substrates via a filamentous pad. The larvae are planktonic, often residing in shallow coastal waters. For divers, encountering the Manyspot Blenny can be an interesting experience, as these fish are harmless and often seen in their natural reef habitats. They are currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.