Common name: Spectacled coralblenny

Scientific name: Ecsenius oculus Springer, 1971
Midas blenny in saltwater reef tankCute Blenny fish, Close up
Midas blenny

General information

The Two-spot Blenny, scientifically known as Ecsenius oculus, is a small and colorful fish that adds personality to any reef aquarium. It is part of the Blenniidae family and is known for its distinctive ocellus, or eye-spot, on each side of the base of its tail, which can confuse predators and provide a means of escape. This species is not only admired for its unique appearance but also for its peaceful demeanor and its role in algae control within the tank.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 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 diverse diet
Social
Solo Territorial; best kept alone
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive 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
    Spectacled coralblenny
    Ecsenius oculus Springer, 1971

Care

Ecsenius oculus is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. It requires 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 high-quality herbivore preparations. It's important to maintain good water quality and stable parameters to keep these fish healthy.

Reproduction

In the wild, Two-spot Blennies are known to be oviparous, with males guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging, and there is limited information on successful captive breeding practices for this species.

Habitat

Ecsenius oculus is found in the Western Pacific, from Indonesia to the Solomon Islands, and north to the Ryukyu Islands. They typically inhabit shallow, coral-rich reefs and lagoons, often seen perching on coral branches or nestled in crevices.