Spotted Snakelet

The Spotted Snakelet, also known as the African eel blenny (Haliophis guttatus), is a marine species prevalent in tropical, reef-associated environments, with a depth range spanning from 1 to 15 meters. This species achieves a maximum length of 15.5 cm and is predominantly located in shallow reefs, particularly in zones characterized by rock and rubble formations.

Morphologically, the Spotted Snakelet features distinctive dorsal spines numbering two in total, complemented by 41 to 46 dorsal soft rays. The anal structure is devoid of spines and consists of 33 to 39 soft rays. Of particular note is the second dorsal spine, which is embedded within the flesh and discernible only via X-ray or through cleared and stained specimens. The species exhibits seven preopercular pores, and a median posterior interorbital pore is absent. Additionally, a dark, ocellated spot can be observed on the shoulder area. The fill membranes and the isthmus are fused in this species.

Geographically, the Spotted Snakelet is distributed across the Western 🌊 Indian Ocean, with its range extending from the 🌊 Red Sea to the northern 🌊 Gulf of Aden, covering southern 🇴🇲 Oman, the east coast of Africa from 🇰🇪 Kenya to 🇲🇿 Mozambique, and also along the west coast of 🇲🇬 Madagascar.