About Ecsenius midas Starck, 1969
Common Nomenclature and Taxonomy
Ecsenius midas, commonly known as the Midas blenny, Persian blenny, lyretail blenny, or golden blenny, is a species of marine fish in the family Blenniidae.
Distribution Range
The Midas blenny is widely distributed across tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the eastern coast of Africa (including the Red Sea) to the Marquesan Islands.
Human Trade Interaction
It occasionally enters the aquarium trade.
Etymology of Specific Name
This species' specific name refers to the Phrygian king Midas from Greek mythology, who turned anything he touched into gold; the type specimen was golden in color when alive, though it is now known that the species varies in coloration overall.
Maximum Size
It reaches a maximum length of 13 cm.
Base Coloration and Mimicry
Its usual base color is golden orange, but it can adapt its color through mimicry to match the fish it associates with.
Distinct Marking
It has a distinct black spot near its anus.
Associated Species
It is frequently found swimming alongside the lyretail anthias, Pseudanthias squamipinnis.
Diet Classification
The Midas blenny feeds on plankton, making it a planktivore.
