Common name: Squiggly blenny
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusBlennyCirripectes
- SpeciesSquiggly blennyCirripectes quagga (Fowler & Ball, 1924)
- SynonymsCirripectes guagga (Fowler & Ball, 1924)Cirripectes lineopunctatus Strasburg, 1956Cirripectus lineopunctatus Strasburg, 1956Rupiscartes 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.