Common name: Scale-eating fang blenny
General information
The Bluestriped Fangblenny, scientifically known as Plagiotremus goslinei, is a small, colorful fish that is a member of the Blenniidae family. This species is known for its striking blue stripes that run along the length of its body, contrasting against a yellowish-brown background. The Bluestriped Fangblenny has a notorious reputation for its mimicry behavior, where it imitates the cleaner wrasse to sneak up on other fish and nip their fins or scales.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy May nip at fins of other fish
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet; accepts most foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at other fish
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be nippy towards tankmates
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusBluestreak Cleaner WrassePlagiotremus
- SpeciesScale-eating fang blennyPlagiotremus goslinei (Strasburg, 1956)
- SynonymsRunula goslinei Strasburg, 1956
Care
In the aquarium, Plagiotremus goslinei requires a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are generally hardy but can be aggressive towards other tank mates, especially smaller fish and other blennies. It's important to provide a varied diet that includes meaty foods and marine algae to maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
Bluestriped Fangblennies are oviparous, with distinct pairing during breeding. They lay eggs in a secure location within the reef structure, which are then guarded by the male until they hatch. Breeding in captivity is not common, but with the right conditions, it can be achieved by experienced aquarists.
Habitat
Plagiotremus goslinei is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs, often seen at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters.