The sarcastic fringehead (Neoclinus blanchardi) is a small but hardy saltwater tube-blenny that possesses a large mouth and aggressive territorial behavior, for which it has been given its common name. The term 'fringehead' reflects the distinctive ruff of tissue surrounding the fish's neck. The specific name honors Dr. S. B. Blanchard of San Diego, California, who collected specimens of this blenny and passed them on to Charles Frédéric Girard, who described it.
Appearance
[[File:Fringehead Gape.png|thumb|Sarcastic fringehead's vibrant colored gape elegant and slender, Their body coloration varies from warm brown to gray with a blotchy appearance.
Male sarcastic fringeheads are distinguished by their extremely wide mouth gape, which, when open, may be as much as four times its size when closed. The interior of the mouth is brightly colored, with yellow at the posterior, which is hypothesized to amplify its display. Additionally, properties in their buccopalatal membrane give them a green fluorescent appearance. Out of the three fringehead species (Sarcastic, Onespot, and Yellowfin), the sarcastic fringehead is the most aggressive.
Ecology and behavior
thumb|A sarcastic fringehead living in a plastic tube
Sarcastic fringeheads live along sandy and muddy bottoms below the low tide line. They tend to back into objects and cavities, such shells, burrows, and crevices, This is thought to be male-male competition for shelter, which is vital for the species' survival in these highly competitive environments. The time wasted searching for a new shelter can increase the risk of predation, as displaced fringeheads become more vulnerable while searching for a new home. The sarcastic fringehead exhibits distinct variations in aggressive displays compared to other fringehead species, suggesting that ecological pressures, such as heightened competition for resources, have shaped its unique behavioral traits.]]
Due to the size of their mouths, sarcastic fringeheads are categorized as ram-suction feeders, relying on fast burst speeds and moderate suction to capture prey. During squid spawning season, they can consume large numbers of squid eggs.
Conservation status
The sarcastic fringehead is classified as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN due to relatively low threats from human activities and its occurrence in areas that are protected. Despite their small size, sarcastic fringeheads are unlikely to be targeted by fishers due to their aggressive nature. When they are caught accidentally, sport and commercial anglers often find them challenging to handle due to the likelihood of being bitten by the needle-like teeth when they become agitated. Divers have noted that these feisty fish can damage their wetsuits.