Common name: Squiggly blenny

Scientific name: Cirripectes quagga (Fowler & Ball, 1924)

General information

The Quagga Blenny, scientifically known as Cirripectes quagga, is a small, colorful fish that adds both character and diversity to a reef aquarium. Its distinctive zebra-like stripes and active behavior make it a favorite among aquarists. This species is part of the Blenniidae family, which is known for its members' adaptability and hardiness in captivity.

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 8.1 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 Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May be territorial with similar 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
    Squiggly blenny
    Cirripectes quagga (Fowler & Ball, 1924)
  8. Synonyms
    Cirripectes guagga (Fowler & Ball, 1924)
    Cirripectes lineopunctatus Strasburg, 1956
    Cirripectus lineopunctatus Strasburg, 1956
    Rupiscartes quagga Fowler & Ball, 1924

Care

Quagga Blennies are relatively easy to care for, but they do require a tank with plenty of live rock and hiding spaces to thrive. They are herbivores, so their diet should consist of marine algae and vegetable-based foods. It's important to ensure a varied diet to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Quagga Blennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and caring for the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur, but it requires a well-established system and careful attention to water quality and diet.

Habitat

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Quagga Blennies are typically found in shallow, coral-rich environments. They are adept at navigating the complex structures of coral reefs, which provide them with food, shelter, and breeding grounds.