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Bluestriped fangblenny

Plagiotremus rhinorhynchos

Bluestriped fangblenny© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The bluestriped fangblenny (Plagiotremus rhinorhynchos) is a tiny, secretive reef fish known for its striking blue stripe and aggressive mimicry of cleaner fish. It inhabits shallow coral reefs and rocky outcrops, reaching up to 12 cm in length. Anglers rarely target it, but it can be caught for observation or aquarium trade.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Blenniidae

Max Size

12 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

1-40m

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Year‑round in tropical Indo‑Pacific waters

Best Time

Early morning to late afternoon

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Bluestriped fangblenny

  • Use a light 5‑6 ft ultralight spinning rod with 2‑4 lb test line to feel subtle bites.
  • Fish close to reef overhangs and crevices where the fangblenny hides, using a gentle jig‑and‑pause motion.
  • Employ tiny live baits such as shrimp larvae or copepods, or micro soft‑plastic grubs on a size 4‑6 hook.
  • Keep the hook exposed and retrieve slowly; the fish often takes the bait without a strong strike.

Top Fishing Locations for Bluestriped fangblenny

Christmas Island Reef

Australia (Territory)
intermediate75% Very Common

Clear waters around the island's western coast host abundant reef fish, including the Bluestriped fangblenny, making it a hotspot for dedicated anglers.

Best: April-September

Raja Ampat – Misool Island Reef

Indonesia
intermediate65% Common

One of the world's most biodiverse marine areas; the complex coral structures provide ideal habitat for the Bluestriped fangblenny.

Best: October-April

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
beginner55% Common

Located on the outer reef, Lizard Island offers pristine coral heads where fangblennies are frequently encountered.

Best: June-October

Blue Corner, Palau

Palau
intermediate60% Common

Renowned dive site with steep walls and abundant crevices that attract small reef fish like the Bluestriped fangblenny.

Best: November-April

Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
beginner50% Common

Lagoon reefs with rich macrofauna; anglers targeting small reef species often find fangblennies here.

Best: January-April,November-December

beginner40% Occasional

Protected marine park with healthy coral gardens; the species is present but less abundant than in Indo-Pacific hotspots.

Best: September-November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Bluestriped fangblenny

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 5‑6 ft, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro jigs or tiny soft‑plastic grubs
TechniqueGentle jigging near reef crevices, light line

Best bait: Live shrimp larvae or copepods