Common name: Blue-head combtooth-blenny
General information
The Dusky Blenny, scientifically known as Ecsenius lividanalis, is a small, colorful fish that is a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is part of the Blenniidae family and is known for its distinctive coloration and behavior. The Dusky Blenny has a brown to dark blue body with a vibrant yellow or orange stripe running from the eye to the base of the tail, which can vary in intensity.
Blennies from the genus Ecsenius are known for their curious and watchful nature, often seen perching on rocks or coral heads, observing their surroundings. They are also known for their algae-eating habits, which can be beneficial in controlling algae growth in the aquarium.
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 aquarium life
- Diet
- Herbivore Prefers algae-based foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at conspecifics
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusBlenniesEcsenius
- SpeciesBlue-head combtooth-blennyEcsenius lividanalis Chapman & Schultz, 1952
- SynonymsEcsenius lividinalis Chapman & Schultz, 1952
Care
Dusky Blennies are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced aquarists. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. These fish are territorial and should be provided with their own space to prevent aggression towards other blennies or similar-sized fish.
A varied diet is important for the Dusky Blenny, including marine algae, vegetable matter, and meaty foods such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. It's essential to ensure that they receive enough plant-based food to meet their nutritional needs.
Reproduction
In the wild, Dusky Blennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if a pair is well-established and the environment is stable, but raising the fry can be challenging.
Habitat
The Dusky Blenny is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit shallow reefs and lagoons, often in areas with strong water movement. They can be found at depths ranging from just below the surface to about 30 meters.
Geographical distribution includes areas such as the Maldives, Indonesia, Philippines, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat consists of coral-rich areas and rubble slopes where they can find ample food and shelter.