Ecsenius axelrodi Springer, 1988

Species Size

Ecsenius axelrodi, a species of combtooth blenny, is small, reaching a maximum total length of 5.8 centimeters (2.3 inches).

Dorsal Fin Structure

Its dorsal fin has 12 spines and 12 to 14 soft rays, with a deep notch between the spiny and soft-rayed portions of the fin.

Anal Fin Structure

The anal fin has 2 spines and 14 to 16 soft rays.

Body Coloration

This species is variable in coloration, but typically has broad orange bands running along its body, plus transverse black bars on the rear half of its body. Black longitudinal stripes occur in some individuals.

Eye Features

Its eyes are prominent, with a black line running through each eye.

Distinguishing Markings

This species can be told apart from other similar blennies by two distinct marking patterns: an obliquely sloping, oblong black spot just above where the pectoral fin inserts, and four or five round black spots just below the spinous portion of the dorsal fin.

Geographic Range

Ecsenius axelrodi is native to the western central Pacific Ocean, with a documented range covering the Admiralty Islands, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.

Habitat and Depth

It lives on coral reefs, specifically found on outer reef crests and slopes at depths down to 15 meters (49 feet).

Habitat Preference

Both adult and juvenile individuals are restricted to subtidal areas that host live corals.