Segmented Blenny

Salarias segmentatus

The Segmented blenny, a member of the combtooth blenny family, is found in the Western Central Pacific, including regions such as Indonesia, New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Palau. This small reef-associated fish reaches a maximum length of 11 centimeters. It can be identified by its fusiform body shape and distinctive red spots on its back and sides, which become more pronounced towards the tail. A notable large spot can also be observed on its breast. Segmented blennies inhabit shallow lagoon reefs, typically residing on algal-covered rocks and rubble. They are found at depths ranging from the surface down to 12 meters, although most occurrences are shallower than 20 meters. These blennies are solitary dwellers, often seen alone on coral outcrops. Their diet primarily consists of algae, which they graze from the bases of corals. Reproduction in Segmented blennies is oviparous, with distinct pairing during mating. The eggs are adhesive, attaching to substrates via a filamentous pad. Larvae are planktonic and are commonly found in shallow coastal waters. The species is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.