Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Aggressive

They possess a comical and inquisitive personality, often watching the world outside their tank. While peaceful to most, they aggressively defend their chosen perch from intruders. They can be pugnacious toward fish with a similar body shape or dietary niche.

Diet

Herbivore

They are predominantly herbivorous and feed heavily on microalgae in the wild. A mature tank with natural algae growth is highly beneficial for their health. Their diet should be supplemented with spirulina-based flakes and herbivore preparations.

Sex ratio

Solitary

Visual sexing is difficult, though males may be slightly larger and exhibit different coloration during courtship. They are highly intolerant of conspecifics unless kept as a mated pair. It is safest to keep only one per aquarium to prevent fighting.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

They should be fed small amounts two to three times a day. If abundant natural algae is present, supplemental feeding can be reduced. Constant grazing is natural and keeps them healthy.

Bioload

This blenny produces a relatively low bioload. Their waste output is manageable in a well-maintained reef or FOWLR system. Standard biological filtration and a skimmer are sufficient.

Flow

Strong

They enjoy moderate to strong water flow. Currents that simulate surging reef environments are ideal. The flow also helps keep nuisance detritus from settling on their favored rocks.

Jump risk

Yes

They are known jumpers, especially when first introduced. They may also leap to escape aggressive tank mates. A secure lid with no large gaps is completely necessary.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Breeding the Redlip Blenny in captivity has rarely been accomplished. Males typically guard a nest of eggs hidden in a crevice until they hatch. The planktonic larval stage is incredibly difficult to raise in home aquariums.

Compatibility & tankmates

Reef safe

They are generally peaceful with dissimilar species but can be highly territorial toward other blennies. They may occasionally nip at small polyp stony corals or clam mantles. It is best to house them with active fish that occupy different water levels.

Tank level

Bottom

They are strictly bottom-dwellers that perch on live rock and substrate. They rarely swim freely in the open water column. You will often see them darting between crevices or resting on elevated rocks.