Common name: Axelrod's clown blenny

Scientific name: Ecsenius axelrodi Springer, 1988
Clown blenny Ecsenius axelrodiAxelrod's clown blenny  (Ecsenius axelrodi) resting on coral reef of Bali, Indonesia
clown coralblenny fishClown Blenny (Ecsenius axelrodi) on coral reef of Bali, Indonesia

General information

Axelrod's Blenny, scientifically known as Ecsenius axelrodi, is a small, colorful fish that is a favorite among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is known for its distinctive dark spot at the base of its tail, which is why it's also commonly referred to as the Tailspot Blenny. They are part of the Blenniidae family and are appreciated for their personality and algae-eating habits.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Adapts well to captivity
Diet
Herbivore Prefers algae-based foods
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May nip at conspecifics
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
    Blennies
    Ecsenius
  7. Species
    Axelrod's clown blenny
    Ecsenius axelrodi Springer, 1988

Care

Axelrod's Blenny is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing on microalgae and for hiding. These blennies are generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other blennies. They thrive in a stable environment with consistent water quality.

Reproduction

In the wild, blennies are known to lay eggs in crevices or under ledges. In captivity, breeding Axelrod's Blenny can be challenging, and there is limited information on successful captive breeding. However, they are known to be egg-layers, and the male typically guards the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Ecsenius axelrodi is native to the Western Pacific, where it is found in shallow, coral-rich areas and reef slopes. They prefer environments with abundant live rock and coral where they can graze and seek shelter.