Midas Blenny - Ecsenius midas

Midas Blenny (Ecsenius midas)

The 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.

Tank Requirements

Midas Blennies thrive in aquariums of 30 gallons or more, 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.

Active and Expressive

Unlike 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.

Diet and Feeding

Midas Blennies are omnivores, but lean more toward carnivorous diets in captivity. Feed a mix of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality frozen or pellet foods. They will also nibble on algae and graze around the tank, making them helpful for light algae control.

Tankmates and Behavior

Generally 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 reef-safe with corals and inverts.