Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

It is a peaceful, comical fish with a lot of personality. It minds its own business grazing all day. It only shows territoriality towards its own kind.

Diet

Herbivore

It is an obligate herbivore that constantly grazes on microalgae. A mature tank with plenty of natural algae growth is required. Supplement with nori and herbivore pellets if algae is sparse.

Sex ratio

Solitary

It is strongly advised to keep only one individual per tank. Males will fiercely fight each other. Only keep a pair if they are confirmed male and female in a very large tank.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

It grazes continuously throughout the day on the live rock. Supplemental feedings can be offered once daily. If natural algae is abundant, targeted feeding may not be needed.

Bioload

This marine blenny adds a relatively low bioload to the system. Standard protein skimming and live rock filtration are adequate. Routine maintenance will keep the water pristine.

Flow

Strong

It tolerates a wide range of flow conditions in the reef tank. Moderate to high flow is generally acceptable. It spends most of its time perched on rocks regardless of flow.

Jump risk

Yes

There is a moderate jump risk for this blenny. A mesh screen or tightly fitted canopy should be used. It may dart to the surface when frightened.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Breeding in home aquariums is exceptionally rare. They lay adhesive eggs inside rocky crevices. Raising the tiny planktonic larvae is extremely difficult.

Compatibility & tankmates

Reef safe

It is generally peaceful towards most other reef fish. However, it can be aggressive towards conspecifics or similar-looking blennies. It is completely reef safe and ignores corals.

Tank level

Bottom

It is a benthic fish that stays firmly on the bottom and on rocks. It is constantly hopping from one perch to another. It very rarely swims in the open water column.