Common name: Pacific Fanged Blenny
General information
The Redlip Blenny, scientifically known as Ophioblennius steindachneri, is a charismatic and colorful fish species popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is easily recognized by its vibrant red lips, which contrast strikingly against its mottled brown and tan body. The Redlip Blenny is a small, active fish that can reach up to 14 centimeters in length and is known for its curious and bold behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding spots & algae growth
- Diet
- Herbivore Prefers algae, offer varied veggie diet
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, may nip at slow fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusRockskipper BlennyOphioblennius
- SpeciesPacific Fanged BlennyOphioblennius steindachneri Jordan & Evermann, 1898
Care
Redlip Blennies are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. These blennies are herbivores, primarily feeding on algae, so it's important to maintain a healthy growth of algae within the tank or supplement their diet with algae-based foods.
Reproduction
In the wild, Redlip Blennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. In captivity, breeding can occur, but it requires a mature aquarium with stable conditions and careful attention to the spawning process.
Habitat
Ophioblennius steindachneri is native to the Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands. They are typically found in shallow, rocky coastal areas where they can graze on algae and take refuge among the rocks and crevices.