Aspidontus taeniatus

Datasheet

General Description

The False Cleanerfish, or Aspidontus taeniatus, belongs to the Blenniidae family. This species is known for mimicking cleaner wrasses, showcasing an intriguing adaptation to its environment. They feature an oblong shape with a long dorsal fin and are characterized by small "legs" used for movement along the substrate. Their size typically does not exceed 11.0cm, making them well-suited for both small and large aquarium setups.

Aquarium Suitability

False Cleanerfish are noted to be suitable for specialized aquariums due to their behavior and requirements. They tend to thrive best when kept as the sole specimen of their species in a tank. Their fun personality and unique mimicry behavior make them a captivating choice for aquarists looking for an interesting addition to their setups.

Demands

These blennies are considered hardy and can adapt well to established aquarium conditions. They often require good hiding places within the tank, such as among live rocks, to provide them with a sense of security. Additionally, they are known to be aggressive towards other species, so careful consideration should be taken when selecting tankmates.

Care and Hardiness

Aspidontus taeniatus is classified as a hardy species, capable of tolerating fluctuations in water parameters within the recommended ranges. They prefer water temperatures between 22.2-25.6°C, a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12.

Reef Suitability

False Cleanerfish are regarded as always reef safe, making them a suitable choice for reef aquariums. Their mimicry behavior and unique characteristics add an interesting dynamic to reef ecosystems without posing a threat to coral or other reef inhabitants.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for False Cleanerfish, it is essential to provide ample hiding spots like live rocks to cater to their need for shelter and security. A minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended to accommodate their swimming and foraging habits. Maintaining stable water conditions within the specified parameters will help ensure the well-being of these fish.

Behaviour

These blennies exhibit aggressive behavior towards other species, particularly towards conspecifics. Their mimicry of cleaner wrasses adds a fascinating layer to their interactions within the aquarium, making them intriguing to observe. Providing a suitable environment with hiding places can help mitigate potential conflicts.

Feeding and Diet

False Cleanerfish primarily feed on fish and zooplankton like Cyclops and pods. Ensuring a varied diet that meets their nutritional needs is essential for their health and vitality. Offering a diverse range of food items will help mimic their natural feeding behaviors and support their overall well-being.

Dimorphism

Dimorphism within the False Cleanerfish species may exist but is not explicitly detailed in available information. Captive reproduction of these fish, if covered, would involve creating conditions conducive to breeding behaviors and providing appropriate care for the fry. However, specifics on captive reproduction are not provided in the current context.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in various regions of the Pacific Ocean, from the Cocos-Keeling Islands and Christmas Island in the eastern Indian Ocean to locations such as the Line, Marquesan, and Tuamotu Islands, False Cleanerfish have a relatively widespread distribution. They can be observed as far north as southern Japan and as far south as New South Wales, demonstrating adaptability to varying habitats within their range.