Labrisomidae

Labrisomidae is a family of ray-finned fish, commonly known as combtooth blennies. These small, elongated fish are found in marine environments, primarily in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. They are benthic, meaning they live on or near the seabed, and are often found in rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and coral formations.

Combtooth blennies are characterized by their prominent, comb-like teeth arranged in rows on their jaws. These teeth are not used for tearing prey but rather for scraping algae and other food sources from surfaces. Their diet typically consists of algae, small invertebrates, and sometimes plankton. They are generally small, with most species measuring only a few centimeters in length, though some can reach up to 15 centimeters.

The family Labrisomidae includes over 100 species distributed across numerous genera. They exhibit a wide variety of color patterns and body shapes, often with cryptic coloration that helps them blend into their surroundings. Many species have a single, continuous dorsal fin and a notched anal fin. They are often observed hovering near their chosen habitat, with rapid movements to dart into crevices when threatened. Reproduction in Labrisomidae typically involves external fertilization, with eggs laid on substrates. Little is known about the specific life cycles and behaviors of many species due to their small size and elusive nature.