Common name: Fiji clown blenny

Scientific name: Ecsenius fijiensis Springer, 1988
Clown blennyClown 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

  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
    Fiji clown blenny
    Ecsenius 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.