Common name: seaweed blenny

Scientific name: Parablennius marmoreus (Poey, 1876)

General information

The Seaweed Blenny, scientifically known as Parablennius marmoreus, is a small, characterful fish that is well-suited to the marine aquarium. This species is known for its distinctive marbled pattern and its curious behavior. It is a benthic fish, meaning it spends most of its time near the bottom of the tank, often perched on rocks or coral.

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
13 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers rockwork with hiding spots
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet; accepts flakes and frozen food
Social
Solo Can be 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
    seaweed blenny
    Parablennius marmoreus (Poey, 1876)
  8. Synonyms
    Blennius marmoreus Poey, 1876
    Blennius mormoreus Poey, 1876

Care

Seaweed Blennies are relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for perching and hiding. These blennies are herbivores, and their diet should consist mainly of marine algae and vegetable matter, supplemented with high-quality prepared foods.

Reproduction

In the wild, Seaweed Blennies are oviparous, with males guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging, but with the right environment and care, it is possible to encourage spawning.

Habitat

Parablennius marmoreus is found in shallow, rocky coastal waters and is often associated with algal growth. They are native to the Eastern Atlantic, from the British Isles to Senegal, including the Mediterranean and Black Seas.