{"title":"Blennies","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"41\" data-end=\"467\"\u003eBlennies are small, personality-packed saltwater fish that thrive in reef and fish-only aquariums alike. Known for their curious expressions and perch-and-watch behavior, blennies spend much of their time hopping between rocks and coral branches, adding subtle movement and character to the tank. Popular species like the Lawnmower, Tailspot, and Bicolor Blenny are especially loved for their unique looks and manageable size.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"469\" data-end=\"810\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eMost blennies do well in established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. Many species help control film algae, making them both functional and entertaining additions to a reef system. Generally peaceful and reef safe, blennies are a great option for hobbyists looking to add personality without introducing aggression.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"striped-blenny-troop-4-pack","title":"Captive-Bred Striped Blenny - Meiacanthus grammistes","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"143\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"98\" data-end=\"116\"\u003eStriped Blenny\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"117\" data-end=\"143\"\u003e(Meiacanthus grammistes)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"145\" data-end=\"460\" class=\"\"\u003eStriped Blennies are sleek, eye-catching reef fish known for their bold black stripes running horizontally across a vibrant yellow to silvery body. Their streamlined shape and expressive faces give them a charming personality, while their unique swimming style adds movement and character to any saltwater aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"462\" data-end=\"483\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"462\" data-end=\"483\"\u003eTank Requirements\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"485\" data-end=\"784\" class=\"\"\u003eStriped Blennies are well-suited for aquariums of 30 gallons or more. They appreciate a rockwork-heavy aquascape with plenty of caves, ledges, and crevices to explore and retreat into. These fish are generally active and spend most of their time darting through rock structures or resting on ledges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"816\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"816\"\u003eReef Safe with Personality\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"818\" data-end=\"1074\" class=\"\"\u003eThese blennies are considered reef-safe and typically leave coral and invertebrates alone. They can be a bit territorial toward similar-shaped fish, especially other blennies, but are peaceful with most tankmates when given adequate space and hiding spots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1096\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1096\"\u003eDiet and Feeding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1098\" data-end=\"1388\" class=\"\"\u003eStriped Blennies are carnivorous and readily accept a variety of meaty foods. A well-balanced diet can include mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets or frozen blends. They’re quick to adapt to prepared foods and tend to be enthusiastic feeders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1390\" data-end=\"1422\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1390\" data-end=\"1422\"\u003eA Built-in Defense Mechanism\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1424\" data-end=\"1644\" class=\"\"\u003eOne unique trait of the Striped Blenny is its venomous bite—used only in defense. While not harmful to humans, this mild venom helps deter predators and gives them a level of confidence not often seen in small reef fish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"TSA Fish","offers":[{"title":"Small (\u003c2\")","offer_id":50651898642730,"sku":"BLENNYxStripedCBS","price":34.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium (2-3\")","offer_id":50651898675498,"sku":"BLENNYxStripedCBM","price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large (\u003e3\")","offer_id":50651898708266,"sku":"BLENNYxStripedCBL","price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/0873\/7322\/files\/tsa-fish-captive-bred-striped-blenny-meiacanthus-grammistes-1207802767.png?v=1763674553"},{"product_id":"midas-blenny","title":"Midas Blenny - Ecsenius midas","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"74\" data-end=\"154\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"121\" data-end=\"154\"\u003eMidas Blenny (Ecsenius midas)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"156\" data-end=\"537\" class=\"\"\u003eThe Midas Blenny is a vibrant, golden-yellow reef fish known for its smooth, eel-like swimming style and bold personality. Often sporting hints of blue around the eyes and sometimes transitioning to darker shades along the body, this blenny adds both color and character to reef aquariums. Their inquisitive nature and unique movement make them a captivating addition to any setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"539\" data-end=\"560\" class=\"\"\u003eTank Requirements\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"562\" data-end=\"882\" class=\"\"\u003eMidas Blennies thrive in \u003cstrong data-start=\"587\" data-end=\"622\"\u003eaquariums of 30 gallons or more\u003c\/strong\u003e, with plenty of rockwork for hiding and exploring. They enjoy a mix of open swimming space and crevices where they can retreat when startled. A secure lid is recommended, as they may jump, especially in response to sudden changes in lighting or tank activity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"884\" data-end=\"909\" class=\"\"\u003eActive and Expressive\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"911\" data-end=\"1235\" class=\"\"\u003eUnlike many blennies that stay close to the rocks, the Midas Blenny often swims freely in the water column, mimicking the behavior of an anthias. They’re curious and alert, frequently watching and interacting with tankmates and their environment. Their darting, fluid swimming style gives them a unique presence in the tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1237\" data-end=\"1257\" class=\"\"\u003eDiet and Feeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1559\" class=\"\"\u003eMidas Blennies are \u003cstrong data-start=\"1278\" data-end=\"1291\"\u003eomnivores\u003c\/strong\u003e, but lean more toward carnivorous diets in captivity. Feed a mix of \u003cstrong data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1455\"\u003emysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality frozen or pellet foods\u003c\/strong\u003e. They will also nibble on algae and graze around the tank, making them helpful for light algae control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1561\" data-end=\"1587\" class=\"\"\u003eTankmates and Behavior\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1589\" data-end=\"1900\" class=\"\"\u003eGenerally peaceful, Midas Blennies get along well with most community reef fish. However, they may become territorial toward other blennies or similarly shaped fish in smaller tanks. In larger reef aquariums, they tend to be more sociable and outgoing. They are considered \u003cstrong data-start=\"1862\" data-end=\"1875\"\u003ereef-safe\u003c\/strong\u003e with corals and inverts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"TSA Fish","offers":[{"title":"Small (\u003c2.25\")","offer_id":50759130382634,"sku":"BLENNYxMidasS","price":84.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium (2.25-3.5\")","offer_id":50073124143402,"sku":"BLENNYxMidasM","price":99.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large (3.5-4.75\")","offer_id":50814902108458,"sku":"BLENNYxMidasL","price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"XL (\u003e4.75\")","offer_id":50073124176170,"sku":"BLENNYxMidasX","price":139.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/0873\/7322\/files\/tsa-fish-midas-blenny-1204622507.png?v=1762991031"},{"product_id":"algae-blenny","title":"Algae Lawnmower Blenny - Salarias fasciatus","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"129\" data-end=\"213\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"176\" data-end=\"213\"\u003eAlgae Blenny (Salarias fasciatus)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"215\" data-end=\"572\" class=\"\"\u003eAlgae Blennies, also known as Lawnmower or Sailfin Blennies, are hardworking herbivores famous for their constant grazing and quirky expressions. With their mottled brown and white bodies, large eyes, and blunt heads, these fish bring both utility and charm to reef aquariums. Their comical personalities and algae-munching habits make them a favorite among hobbyists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"574\" data-end=\"595\" class=\"\"\u003eTank Requirements\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"597\" data-end=\"873\" class=\"\"\u003eAlgae Blennies do best in \u003cstrong data-start=\"623\" data-end=\"658\"\u003eaquariums of 30 gallons or more\u003c\/strong\u003e, with plenty of live rock where they can graze for algae and perch between feedings. They prefer established tanks with ample natural algae growth and hiding spots, but will also adapt well to supplemental feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"875\" data-end=\"900\" class=\"\"\u003eNatural Clean-Up Crew\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"902\" data-end=\"1157\" class=\"\"\u003eThese blennies are valued for their appetite for nuisance algae, especially film and hair algae. While they won't replace a full cleanup crew, they serve as an excellent natural helper in keeping unwanted algae in check, especially in mature reef systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1159\" data-end=\"1179\" class=\"\"\u003eDiet and Feeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1181\" data-end=\"1535\" class=\"\"\u003ePrimarily herbivorous, Algae Blennies should be provided with a diet rich in \u003cstrong data-start=\"1258\" data-end=\"1321\"\u003emarine algae, spirulina, nori sheets, and herbivore pellets\u003c\/strong\u003e. In tanks with limited algae, supplemental feedings are essential to ensure long-term health. Some individuals may also accept small amounts of frozen meaty foods, but greens should make up the bulk of their diet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1537\" data-end=\"1563\" class=\"\"\u003eTankmates and Behavior\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1565\" data-end=\"1904\" class=\"\"\u003eGenerally peaceful, Algae Blennies coexist well in \u003cstrong data-start=\"1616\" data-end=\"1640\"\u003ecommunity reef tanks\u003c\/strong\u003e. However, they may show territorial behavior toward other blennies or similarly shaped fish, especially in smaller tanks. They're considered \u003cstrong data-start=\"1782\" data-end=\"1795\"\u003ereef-safe\u003c\/strong\u003e and do not bother corals or invertebrates, making them a practical and entertaining addition to most setups.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"TSA Fish","offers":[{"title":"Small (\u003c2.25\")","offer_id":50815066439978,"sku":"BLENNYxAlgaeS","price":31.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium (2.25-3.5\")","offer_id":50501212209450,"sku":"BLENNYxAlgaeM","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large (3.5-4.75\")","offer_id":50819346661674,"sku":"BLENNYxAlgaeL","price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"XL (\u003e4.75\")","offer_id":50501212242218,"sku":"BLENNYxAlgaeX","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/0873\/7322\/files\/tsa-fish-algae-lawnmower-blenny-salarias-fasciatus-1231682137.png?v=1775755691"},{"product_id":"captive-bred-kamohara-blenny-fish-meiacanthus-kamoharai","title":"Captive-Bred Kamohara Blenny Fish","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"129\" data-end=\"168\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"129\" data-end=\"168\"\u003eApprox. Size: 2-3 Inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"215\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"215\"\u003eKamohara Blenny (\u003cem data-start=\"189\" data-end=\"212\"\u003eMeiacanthus kamoharai\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"217\" data-end=\"622\"\u003eThe Kamohara Blenny is a sleek and elegant reef fish, admired for its striking black-and-white horizontal striping and peaceful temperament. Native to the subtropical waters of southern Japan, this rare and captivating blenny brings a bold, monochromatic aesthetic to reef aquariums. With its darting movements and curious nature, the Kamohara Blenny adds both motion and refinement to any marine display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"645\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"645\"\u003eTank Requirements\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"947\"\u003eA minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended, with plenty of live rock and ledges to perch on and explore. Kamohara Blennies are highly adaptable and do well in nano reef setups or larger community systems. They prefer stable parameters and benefit from a well-established biological environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"949\" data-end=\"986\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"949\" data-end=\"986\"\u003eColor, Personality, and Hardiness\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"988\" data-end=\"1318\"\u003eWith their clean black-and-white contrast and graceful swimming style, Kamohara Blennies offer a unique visual element rarely seen in reef tanks. They are peaceful, inquisitive, and tend to be out in the open once acclimated. These blennies are also resilient and ship well, making them a great choice for aquarists of all levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1320\" data-end=\"1340\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1320\" data-end=\"1340\"\u003eDiet and Feeding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1342\" data-end=\"1608\"\u003eKamohara Blennies are omnivorous and accept a wide range of foods, including high-quality pellets, flakes, frozen mysis, and finely chopped seafood. A diet rich in protein and occasional plant matter will support their health, coloration, and overall activity level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1610\" data-end=\"1636\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1610\" data-end=\"1636\"\u003eTankmates and Behavior\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1638\" data-end=\"1975\"\u003eCompletely reef-safe, Kamohara Blennies coexist well with peaceful tank mates and ornamental invertebrates. They generally ignore corals and avoid confrontations, though they may display slight territorial behavior toward similar-shaped fish in confined spaces. Best kept singly unless the system is large enough to accommodate multiples.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"TSA Fish","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50758971851050,"sku":"BlennyxKamoCB","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/0873\/7322\/files\/tsa-fish-captive-bred-kamohara-blenny-fish-1207824162.png?v=1763681878"},{"product_id":"filamented-sand-eel-diver-blenny-w_fish040726-13","title":"Filamented Sand Eel Diver Blenny","description":"\u003ch2\u003eIntroduction to Saltwater Blennies\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\nBlennies are hardy, active, and full of personality, making them a favorite among reef keepers. Found in tropical reefs worldwide, these fish spend most of their time perched on rocks, darting through crevices, or grazing on algae. Their small size, adaptability, and unique behaviors make them an excellent choice for both nano and larger reef tanks.\n\nWhile most blennies are peaceful community fish, some species can be territorial toward similar-looking fish. Their \u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCare Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e vary depending on their dietary needs, with some species specializing in algae control, while others prefer meaty foods.\n\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCare Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\nCare Level: Easy to Moderate\nMinimum Tank Size: 20 – 50+ gallons\nSmaller species (e.g., Tailspot, Bicolor) – 20-30 gallons\nLarger species (e.g., Lawnmower, Midas) – 40-50+ gallons\nAquarium Setup: Requires rockwork and ledges for perching, grazing, and shelter.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eDiet \u0026amp; Nutrition\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003e\nBlennies have species-specific diets, with most being herbivores or omnivores, while some are carnivorous.\n\nHerbivorous Species (Algae Grazers):\nLawnmower Blenny, Tailspot Blenny\nThrive on natural algae growth, nori, spirulina, and algae-based pellets\nOmnivorous Species:\nBicolor Blenny, Midas Blenny\nAccept both plant matter and meaty foods\nCarnivorous Species:\nSome blennies prefer a protein-rich diet of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small crustaceans\nProviding a balanced diet ensures optimal coloration, energy levels, and long-term health.\n\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eLifespan \u0026amp; Growth Rate\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\nLifespan: 4-6+ years\nGrowth Rate: Moderate – Most species stay under 5 inches\nBlennies are long-lived for their size, making them a low-maintenance but rewarding addition to a reef tank.\n\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTemperament \u0026amp; Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\nTemperament: Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive – Some species can be territorial toward similar fish\nReef Safe? Yes, but some may nip at corals or clams\nBlennies are typically peaceful but may become aggressive toward fish with similar body shapes, such as gobies or other blennies. To minimize aggression:\n\nKeep only one blenny per tank, unless in a large system with multiple territories.\nAvoid housing them with larger aggressive species that may bully or outcompete them for food.\nMost blennies ignore corals, but some species—like the Bicolor Blenny—have been known to nip at fleshy corals when underfed.\n\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eCommon Challenges \u0026amp; Considerations\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003e\nJumping Risk: Blennies are notorious jumpers—a tight-fitting lid is strongly recommended.\nAlgae Dependency: Herbivorous species require a steady source of algae to remain healthy. A well-established tank is ideal before introducing an algae-grazing blenny.\nTerritorial Behavior: Can be aggressive toward similar-looking fish or other bottom dwellers in smaller tanks.\nWater Conditions\nTemperature: 74-80°F\ndKH (Alkalinity): 8-12\npH: 8.1-8.4\nSpecific Gravity: 1.020-1.025\nBlennies adapt well to stable reef conditions but require a well-oxygenated tank with moderate water flow.\n\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eColor Varieties \u0026amp; Popular Species\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\nBlennies come in various colors and patterns, often featuring striking facial markings and expressive eyes. Popular species include:\n\nLawnmower Blenny (Salarias fasciatus) – Excellent algae grazer with a mottled brown appearance\nTailspot Blenny (Ecsenius stigmatura) – Small, peaceful, with a bright orange tail spot\nMidas Blenny (Ecsenius midas) – Golden-yellow body, known for its eel-like swimming motion\nBicolor Blenny (Ecsenius bicolor) – Half purple, half orange, can be more aggressive than other species\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"TSA Fish","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51388547924266,"sku":"w_fish040726.13","price":115.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/0873\/7322\/files\/tsa-fish-filamented-sand-eel-diver-blenny-1231472044.jpg?v=1775611629"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/0873\/7322\/collections\/blenny-top-shelf-aquatics.webp?v=1775665075","url":"https:\/\/topshelfaquatics.com\/collections\/blennies.oembed","provider":"Top Shelf Aquatics ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}