Istiblennius unicolor (Rüppell, 1838)
Pallid rockskipper
photo by Biryukov V.K.

Family:  Blenniidae (Combtooth blennies), subfamily: Salariinae
Max. size:  10.2 cm SL (male/unsexed); 9.2 cm SL (female)
Environment:  demersal; marine
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: endemic to the Red Sea; from northernmost Gulf of Aqaba, south to Dahlak Archipelago in the southern Red Sea.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 13-13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17-18; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 17-19
Biology:  A rare species endemic to the Red Sea; nothing is known of its habits nor habitat preferences (Ref. 9962). According to traits of family where it belongs, it is oviparous. Eggs are demersal and adhesive (Ref. 205), and are attached to the substrate via a filamentous, adhesive pad or pedestal (Ref. 94114). Larvae are planktonic, often found in shallow, coastal waters (Ref. 94114).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 27 March 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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