Common name: Forktail blenny

Scientific name: Meiacanthus atrodorsalis (Günther, 1877)
Eye-Lash Harptail Blenny Meiacanthus atrodorsalisEye-Lash Harptail Blenny Meiacanthus atrodorsalis

General information

The Forktail Blenny, scientifically known as Meiacanthus atrodorsalis, is a small and active fish that is well-known for its unique defense mechanism. This species belongs to the family Blenniidae and is one of the few fish that possess venomous fangs. These fangs are primarily used for self-defense rather than predation. The Forktail Blenny is a popular choice among aquarists due to its vibrant yellow tail and contrasting dark body, as well as its interesting behavior.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
11 cm (4½″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Needs hiding spots
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet; accepts flakes
Social
Pair Can be kept in pairs
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May nip fins of slow fish
Captive bred
Yes Available as captive-bred
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

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
    Fang Blennies
    Meiacanthus
  7. Species
    Forktail blenny
    Meiacanthus atrodorsalis (Günther, 1877)
  8. Synonyms
    Petroscirtes atrodorsalis Günther, 1877
    Petroscirtes herlihyi Fowler, 1946

Care

Forktail Blennies are relatively easy to care for but do require a stable and mature aquarium. They thrive in tanks with plenty of live rock and hiding places to mimic their natural environment. These fish are generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other blennies. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen and live fare such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, will keep them healthy and vibrant.

Reproduction

In the wild, Forktail Blennies are oviparous, with males often displaying to attract females and encourage them to lay eggs in their territory. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if a pair is well-established and the environment is stable. The male will guard the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Meiacanthus atrodorsalis is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to Samoa, and north to the Ryukyu Islands. They typically inhabit coral-rich areas and lagoons, often seen darting among the crevices of the reef. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 25 meters.

While they do not have a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish with anemones, their role in the reef ecosystem as both predator and prey contributes to the overall health and balance of their habitat.