Dentex Blenny

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba: shallow, sunlit coral reefs. Commonly found in shallow coral-rich reefs with abundant algae at depths of 1 to 15 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Blenniidae, genus Ecsenius. Features a slender body, large eyes, and small nasal cirri. Grows up to 5.0 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and curious, spends time perching on rocks or peering out of small crevices. Usually kept singly.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: The name 'dentex' refers to its well-developed comb-like teeth, perfect for scraping algae. Adult males may develop slightly longer dorsal fin rays and show enhanced coloration during courtship.

Aquarium Setup: Needs a tank of at least 50.0 liters with plenty of mature live rock containing natural algae growth. A tight-fitting lid is recommended.

Diet and Feeding: Herbivore. Provide a diet rich in vegetable matter, including spirulina, nori, and herbivore flakes. Supplement occasionally with mysis and brine shrimp.

Water Quality: Requires stable marine parameters: temperature 22.0-26.0 °C, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Very peaceful with other reef fish; may display territoriality towards other blennies of similar shape. Fully reef-safe.

Aquarium Breeding: Oviparous. Lays adhesive eggs in crevices, which are guarded by the male. Rearing larvae in home aquariums is extremely difficult.

Risks and Diseases: Jump risk when startled. Starvation can occur if the aquarium lacks sufficient algae growth or supplementary feeding.