Common name: Sailfin blenny

General information

The Sailfin Blenny, Emblemaria pandionis, is a small, captivating fish known for its distinctive dorsal fin that resembles a sail. This species is part of the Blenniidae family and is appreciated for its unique behavior and appearance in the aquarium trade. Sailfin Blennies are typically brown or mottled in color, which helps them blend into their rocky surroundings.

Care

Sailfin Blennies are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in tanks with plenty of live rock and crevices for hiding. These fish are herbivores, primarily grazing on algae, so a well-established aquarium with natural algae growth is beneficial. Supplemental feeding with algae-based foods is also recommended.

Reproduction

In the wild, Sailfin Blennies are known for their elaborate courtship displays, where males erect their sail-like dorsal fins to attract females. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with the right conditions, it is possible. A separate breeding tank with ample hiding spaces and a stable environment can encourage spawning.

Habitat

Sailfin Blennies are found in shallow, tropical marine waters, often in coral reef environments or rocky coastal areas. They prefer areas with strong water movement and are adept at clinging to rocks and corals in surge zones.

Geographically, they are distributed in the Western Atlantic, from Bermuda and the northern Gulf of Mexico to northern South America.