One-striped Blenny

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Western Pacific, ranging from Indonesia and the Philippines to Samoa and the Great Barrier Reef. Found in open water near protected coral reefs at depths of 2 to 20 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Part of the Blenniidae family, genus Meiacanthus. Reaches a maximum size of 6.5 cm (2.5 inches). Features a slender body and venomous lower canine teeth.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and gregarious. Often schools in small groups in the wild near branching corals. Excellent active swimmer for reef aquariums.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Body is light silver-blue with a prominent black stripe running from the snout through the eye to the tail. Males may have slightly longer fins.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum tank size of 100 liters (25 gallons) with open swimming area. Matured rockwork should provide shelter. Secure lid is mandatory.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. Naturally feeds on zooplankton. In captivity, feed fine frozen mysis, brine shrimp, cyclops, and high-quality flakes.

Water Quality: Maintain stable reef parameters: temperature 23-27°C (73-81°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025, and KH 8-12. Keep moderate water flow.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Reef-safe. Ideal with small, peaceful tankmates. Larger predators will avoid them due to their venomous defense mechanism.

Aquarium Breeding: Unreported in captive environments. Spawns adhesive eggs in caves or crevices which are guarded by the male.

Risks and Diseases: Handle with care due to defensive venomous canine teeth. Generally very hardy and disease-resistant.