Common name: Molly Miller Blenny
General information
The Molly Miller Blenny, scientifically known as Parablennius incognitus, is a small, characterful fish that is gaining popularity in the reefkeeping hobby. This species is known for its distinctive appearance, with a mottled pattern of brown and white that provides excellent camouflage against the rocky substrates it inhabits. One of the unique features of this blenny is its ability to consume a variety of nuisance algae, making it a valuable addition to any reef tank.
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
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable to aquarium life
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet, accepts most foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusBlenniesParablennius
- SpeciesMolly Miller BlennyParablennius incognitus (Bath, 1968)
- SynonymsBlennius incognitus Bath, 1968Blennius ponticus incognitus Bath, 1968Pictiblennius incognitus (Bath, 1968)
Care
Molly Miller 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 blennies are known for their algae-eating habits, which can help control unwanted algae growth in the aquarium. They are omnivores and will accept a varied diet including marine flakes, frozen foods, and live foods.
Reproduction
In the wild, Molly Miller Blennies are oviparous, with males often guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging, but with the right conditions, it is possible to encourage spawning.
Habitat
Parablennius incognitus is typically found in shallow, coastal waters where it can often be seen darting among rocks and coral rubble. They are native to the Western Atlantic, ranging from North Carolina in the USA to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean.