Fox face spines & Starry Blenny

[its Bez]

I’m a little confused & wondered if anyone could shed some light or thoughts.
I always thought that Fox Face had venom within their dorsal fins, however of late my Starry Blenny has been what looks like having little nips of exactly that area as well as just in general. It doesn’t look like he’s overtly bothered but I’m just wondering why it isn’t putting the Blenny off with a little sting?!

 

[Mark Goode]

My singapore angel went through a phase of doing that. I think to get a sting the spines would need to be compressed. If another fish is tugging on them they're not putting on enough pressure to inject themselves.

Just a thought.

 

[its Bez]

Maybe you’re right, it doesn’t seem to be too upsetting at the min for the Foxface I’d say it’s more annoying looking at his reaction. Odd though.