Common name: Molly Miller Blenny

Scientific name: Parablennius incognitus (Bath, 1968)

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

  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
    Parablennius
  7. Species
    Molly Miller Blenny
    Parablennius incognitus (Bath, 1968)
  8. Synonyms
    Blennius incognitus Bath, 1968
    Blennius ponticus incognitus Bath, 1968
    Pictiblennius 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.