Common name: Spotted blenny

Scientific name: Cirripectes fuscoguttatus Strasburg & Schultz, 1953
Orange Spotted Blenny (Blenniella chrysospilos) in reef tankblenny fish in the ocean

General information

The Spotted Blenny, scientifically known as Cirripectes fuscoguttatus, is a small, charming fish that is well-suited for 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 mottled brown and white coloration, with distinctive spots that give it its common name.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
12 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers complex rockwork
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet; flakes, pellets, frozen
Social
Solo Can be territorial with conspecifics
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Blennies
    Blenniidae
  6. Genus
    Blenny
    Cirripectes
  7. Species
    Spotted blenny
    Cirripectes fuscoguttatus Strasburg & Schultz, 1953
  8. Synonyms
    Cirripectus fuscoguttatus Strasburg & Schultz, 1953

Care

Spotted Blennies are hardy and adaptable, making them a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for perching and hiding. These fish are herbivores, and their diet should include a variety of algae-based foods, supplemented with meaty foods for optimal health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Spotted Blennies are known to be oviparous, with males often guarding and caring for the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if a compatible pair is established, and the aquarist provides an environment with minimal stress and proper nutrition.

Habitat

Cirripectes fuscoguttatus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They typically inhabit shallow, coral-rich areas and rocky substrates, often seen darting among the crevices and overhangs of the reef.