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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: fang-toothed blenny

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: The body is semi-transparent; coloration is yellowish brown with pale fins. There is a short, vertical dark-edged white line behind the eye with no crest or cirri, single or multi-branched filaments, on the head (Allen and Erdmann 2012). Males are unique for the genus in having a dark spot at the posterior end of the dorsal fin (Springer and Gomon 1975). This species has long fang-like teeth (Staples and Cowie 2001).

Size: maximum up size to 6.7 cm total length (Allen and Erdmann 2012)

Native Range: South Africa and India to Australia, north to Taiwan (Allen and Erdmann 2012). Records from South Africa could potentially be introduced due to the wide gap in distribution between Africa and the next nearest locality of India (Springer and Gomon 1975).

Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Ecology: This species inhabits a wide range of habitats from mangrove swamps and sheltered nearshore bays to lower reaches of freshwater streams (Springer and Gomon 1975, Allen and Erdmann 2012). They are found in substrates with deep silt covering cobble and small boulders (Englund and Baumgartner 2000). 

The female lays demersal eggs that are guarded by the male in a nest. Nest sites include the surface of stones, abandoned worm tubes, dead coral crevices, and empty bottles and cans (Allen and Erdmann 2012).

Means of Introduction: likely ballast water or fouling (Englund and Baumgartner 2000)

Status: Established.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Between 1998 and 2000 it spread 15 miles (24 km) along the O'ahu coast. (Staples and Cowie 2001).

References: (click for full references)

Allen, G.R., and M.V. Erdmann. 2012. Reef fishes of the East Indies. Volume 2. Tropical Reef Research, Perth, Australia.

Englund, R.A. and E. Baumgartner. 2000. The fang-toothed blenny, Omobranchus ferox, from Pearl Harbor, O’ahu, a probable unintentional introduction to the Hawaiian Islands. Bishop Museum Occasional Papers 64:61-63.

Springer, V.G., and M.F. Gomon. 1975. Revision of the blenniid fish genus Omobranchus with descriptions of three new species and notes on other species of the tribe Omobranchini. Smithsonian Contributions to Zoology 177:1-135.

Staples, G.W. and R.H. Cowie. 2001. Hawaii's Invasive Species. Bishop Museum, Honolulu, HI. 116pp.

Other Resources:

Author: Brown, M.E., and P. Fuller

Peer Review Date: 7/22/2004

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.