Linespot Fangblenny

Meiacanthus grammistes is a species of combtooth blenny from the western Pacific Ocean. The fish stays in the open ocean, but travels into shallow saltwater and brackish estuaries. This venomous species occasionally makes its way into the aquarium trade.

Description

The fish is stout and deep-bodied, with a pointed snout and long continuous dorsal fin. It is yellow-brown with tan wavy bands stretching the length of its body. On the dorsal fin near the head is a small blue spot. This species grows to 11 cm (4.3 in) TL. The fish has relatively large fangs (canine teeth) that protrude from the lower jaw. Identified by the lined pattern on the body that ends in spots on the tail-fin base.

Venom

The unusual venom, which targets the body's opioid receptors, is being investigated as a potential new painkiller for human use. The venom consists of a neuropeptide also seen in cone snail venom, a lipase similar to the one used by certain species of scorpions and an opioid peptide. Blennies use it to stun predators. The venom reduces the blood pressure of the predator, relaxing its jaws so the blenny can escape. Administration of the venom was found to not cause pain in mice, which is atypical, as most fish venoms are painful. Administration of the venom also did not result in a drop in heart rate in rats.

Distribution

Western Pacific: Indochina to Papua New Guinea, north to Ryukyu Islands, south to northwestern Australia and the Great Barrier Reef. Replaced by Meiacanthus kamoharai in southern Japan.

Habitat

A solitary species found in sheltered lagoon and seaward reefs. Several adults live together occasionally in close vicinity to each other.