Disco Blenny (aka White Fang Blenny)
Description: Disco blennies have a light blue-gray body and a black mark that exaggerates the eye to look elongated like a cat’s eye. A black line also runs longitudinally through the dorsal fin, with an adjacent bright white line running parallel along the tip of the fin. This blenny has a round tail with black lines formed by pigments confined on caudal fin rays, somewhat resembling a paint brush. The shape and patterns, combined with the daily activities of this blenny make it reminiscent of something having to do with disco dancing.

Natural Ecology: Meiacanthus smithi is a carnivore of zooplankton and other bite-size invertebrates. Like most members of this genus, they have evolved a stinging bite for protection against predators. They have also evolved bright colors as an effective reminder to predators, who distinctly associate this species with a stinging experience. Interestingly, other non-venomous species have evolved to look like some Meiacanthus species in color and shape, so that predators also avoid them. This species is mimicked by Plagiotremus phenax, who opportunistically attack other fishes to feed on scales, fin, and flesh tissues.

Indigenous To: Disco blennies are found on the coral reefs of Maldives, and range from Southeast India to West Indonesia.

Behavior: This species ignores other species. Its evolved immunity from predation rendered it unnecessary to hide. It is bravely present in mid-water, hovering near its favorite rock crevice.

Compatability: Usually ignores corals and most invertebrates.

Food: Proaquatix specimens have been weaned to take aquarium pellets and flakes. Freshly frozen invertebrates, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped squid will be readily accepted.