Common name: Midas coralblenny

Scientific name: Ecsenius midas Starck, 1969
Midas blenny in saltwater reef tankCloseup of a midas blenny on reef
Ecsenius midasMidas blenny runaway swim in flow, natural orange coloration hardy fish species with tentacles require aquarist care in reef marine aquarium, popular pet in LED low light, dark blur background

General information

The Midas Blenny (Ecsenius midas) is a popular marine fish known for its vibrant golden-yellow color and dynamic personality. This species is a member of the Blenniidae family and is often sought after by aquarists for its unique appearance and entertaining behavior. Midas Blennies are known to be quite personable, often recognizing their owners and showing curiosity towards human activity around the aquarium.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
13 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Adapts well to aquarium life
Diet
Herbivore Algae grazer, needs diverse diet
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
Yes Available as captive-bred

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
    Midas coralblenny
    Ecsenius midas Starck, 1969

Care

Midas Blennies are relatively easy to care for, but they do require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are peaceful fish that can be kept with a variety of tank mates, but they may show territorial behavior towards other blennies. A varied diet of meaty foods and marine algae will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, reproduction of Midas Blennies is not common, but in the wild, they are oviparous, with males guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Hobbyists interested in breeding should provide optimal conditions and be prepared for the challenge of raising the larvae.

Habitat

Midas Blennies are found in the Red Sea and the Western Indian Ocean. They prefer reef environments with abundant coral and rock formations where they can find food and shelter. In the wild, they are often seen perched on coral heads or darting in and out of crevices.