Common name: Filamentous blenny

General information

The Filamentous Blenny, scientifically known as Cirripectes filamentosus, is a small, characterful fish that is well-suited to reef aquariums. It is part of the Blenniidae family, which is known for its members' unique personalities and behaviors. This species is easily recognized by its elongated filaments on the head and its mottled brown to reddish coloration, which helps it blend into the algae-covered rocks it inhabits.

Care

Filamentous Blennies are hardy and adaptable, making them a good choice for both beginner and advanced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. These fish are herbivores and require a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter. Supplementing their diet with prepared foods like spirulina flakes and algae sheets will help maintain their health and vibrant colors.

Reproduction

In the wild, Filamentous Blennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging, but with the right conditions, it is possible to encourage spawning. A separate breeding tank with stable water parameters and a diet enriched with vitamins may improve the chances of successful reproduction.

Habitat

Cirripectes filamentosus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer shallow, coral-rich environments and are often seen darting among the rocks and corals at depths ranging from just below the surface to about 15 meters. Their natural habitat includes reef flats, lagoon pinnacles, and seaward reefs, where they play a role in controlling algae growth.