Algae Blenny - Salarias faciatus

[Fluff]

Submitted by Fluff

Algae Blenny - Salarias fasciatus

Common Names: Sailfin, Lawnmower, Jewelled Rockskipper, Jeweled Blenny, Rock Blenny, Eyelash Blenny, Horned Blenny

Category: Blenny

Family: Blenniidae

Origin: Indo-Pacific

Main Ecosystem: Ocean/marine

Salinity: 1.020-1.025

Temperament: Peaceful, except with other blennies of the same shape

Diet: Herbivore

Care: Shy fish that requires rockwork to hide in and graze on. This fish feeds mainly off of film algae on rocks and glass, so a mature system of 30 gallons or more is best. Feeding can be supplemented with seaweed sheets and/or veggies, though I've never had one accept these foods. The algae blenny is a peaceful community fish but may get territorial/aggressive with other blennies of the same shape. Only one per tank should be kept unless it's a large system or if it's a mated pair. This blenny may nip at [acronym:0ff7aa71e2="Small Polyped Stoney"]SPS[/acronym:0ff7aa71e2] corals and clam mantles as well.

[acronym:0ff7aa71e2="power head or Measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions, depending on context"]ph[/acronym:0ff7aa71e2]: 8.1-8.4

Temperature: 72-78 degrees fahrenheit

Potential Size: 4-5"

Water Region: Within rockwork at all levels

Activity: Diurnal

Color: Mottled, brown, tan, gray, white

Mouth: Wide

Acclimation: Slow acclimation over a 1-2 hour period. Float to match temperature and add water every 15-20 minutes.

Breeding: Couldn't find any breeding info on this fish so it's assumed it's not being bred in captivity yet.

Comments: Provided there is plenty of film algae in your tank, this fish is a great addition to any reef or fish-only tank. They are full of personality. Care should be taken to keep the tank top secure as these fish will jump out.

Sources:
http://www.solodvds.com/fish_saltwater.asp
http://liveaquaria.com/product/prod_....cfm?pCatId=94