Common name: Fiji clown blenny
General information
The Fiji Blenny, scientifically known as Ecsenius fijiensis, is a small, colorful fish that is a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is part of the combtooth blennies and is known for its distinctive bicolor pattern, typically featuring a front half that is a vivid blue or blue-grey and a back half that is a bright yellow or orange. The Fiji Blenny is a peaceful fish that can add both color and personality to a reef tank.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers complex rockwork
- Diet
- Herbivore Algae grazer; needs varied diet
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial with conspecifics
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful May nip at conspecifics
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusBlenniesEcsenius
- SpeciesFiji clown blennyEcsenius fijiensis Springer, 1988
Care
Fiji Blennies are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing on microalgae and for hiding. These blennies are herbivores, and their diet should consist of marine algae, vegetable matter, and quality herbivore preparations. It's important to ensure that they have a constant supply of natural algae or supplemental foods to keep them healthy.
Reproduction
In the wild, Ecsenius fijiensis are known to lay eggs in crevices within the reef. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding Fiji Blennies can be challenging, and there is limited information on successful captive breeding.
Habitat
The natural habitat of the Fiji Blenny is the coral reefs of Fiji and Tonga, where they are often found in shallow waters. They prefer areas with strong water movement and plenty of live rock for grazing and refuge. In the aquarium, they thrive in similar conditions with ample rockwork and good water quality.