Author: (Valenciennes, 1836)
Comments: Adults are restricted to shallow waters and dwell among rocks and coral reefs (Ref. 5298), where there is considerable wave action (Ref. 26938).  They bite very severely, with their two very long and sharp canine teeth (Ref. 3157).  Are grazers feeding on filamentous algae (Ref. 13442) and detritus.  Larvae feed on plankton; during larval  metamorphosis to adult stage, there is no feeding and rely on lipids stored in the liver (Ref. 94105).  Oviparous.  Eggs are demersal and adhesive (Ref. 205), and are attached to the substrate via a filamentous, adhesive pad or pedestal (Ref. 94114).  <i>Ophioblennius</i> larvae are frequently taken in deep water column (Ref. 5298).  Adult males with fleshy rugosities on anal-fin spines that secrete antimicrobial mucus applied to eggs being guarded (Ref. 94102).