Common name: Midas coralblenny
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusBlenniesEcsenius
- SpeciesMidas coralblennyEcsenius 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.