Common name: Sandy-prawn goby

Scientific name: Ctenogobiops feroculus Lubbock & Polunin, 1977

General information

The Ferocious Blenny, scientifically known as Ctenogobiops feroculus, is a small and intriguing fish species that is not commonly found in the aquarium trade. This species is known for its distinctive appearance, characterized by a long, slender body and a large, upward-facing mouth. The coloration of the Ferocious Blenny can vary, but it typically exhibits a combination of tan, brown, and white hues that help it blend into its surroundings.

Despite its name, the Ferocious Blenny is not particularly aggressive, but it can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics or similar-sized fish. It is a benthic species, meaning it spends most of its time near the substrate.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 7.8 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy
Diet
Carnivore
Social
Pair
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perciformes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Goby
    Gobiidae
  6. Genus
    Ctenogobiops Gobies
    Ctenogobiops
  7. Species
    Sandy-prawn goby
    Ctenogobiops feroculus Lubbock & Polunin, 1977
  8. Synonyms
    Ctenogobius feroculus (Lubbock & Polunin, 1977)

Care

Caring for a Ferocious Blenny requires an established aquarium with plenty of live rock and hiding places to mimic its natural habitat. This species is best suited for intermediate to experienced aquarists due to its specific habitat needs and potential territorial behavior. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain its health and coloration.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive habits of Ctenogobiops feroculus in the wild or in captivity. However, like many marine fish, they are likely to have a pelagic larval stage, where the larvae drift in the open ocean before settling to the bottom as they mature.

Habitat

Ctenogobiops feroculus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in areas with sandy substrates and coral rubble. It is often associated with reef slopes and lagoons, where it can take refuge among the rocks and corals. This species is typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters.