How to Identify Leopard Blenny

To identify Leopard Blenny (Exallias brevis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Highly variable, but typically features a light background (white, cream, or yellowish) covered with numerous dark spots (black, brown, or reddish-brown) that resemble leopard spots. The spots often extend onto the fins. Some individuals may exhibit a more mottled or banded pattern. Males can display more intense coloration during breeding.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Short, blunt snout with a prominent mouth., Fleshy cirri (small, branched appendages) above the eyes and on the nape., Robust, somewhat compressed body., Strong, incisor-like teeth adapted for scraping coral polyps.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 12-13 spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spiny portion is typically lower than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are jugular (located anterior to the pectoral fins) and consist of one spine and two soft rays, often appearing filamentous.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the distinctive leopard-like spots covering the body and fins. The base color can vary, but the spotted pattern is consistent.

2. 2

   Head and Mouth

   Observe the blunt snout and prominent mouth with thick lips. The presence of cirri above the eyes and on the nape is a key blenny characteristic.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Note the robust, somewhat elongated and compressed body, typical of reef-dwelling blennies.

4. 4

   Habitat

   Its strong association with stony corals is a good indicator, as it is often seen grazing directly on coral polyps.

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