More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 litres / 52.83 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 7.0cm / 2.76inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| Temperament | Might be aggressive towards food competitors |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Blackflap blenny, also known as the Eared blenny or Black-spot eye-lash blenny, belongs to the Blenniidae family, specifically Cirripectes auritus. With a maximum size of around 7.0cm, these oblong-shaped fish possess a long dorsal fin and are predominantly found in the Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from Kenya to South Africa, Thailand to the Line Islands.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for aquariums, these blennies have an average hardiness level, making them a feasible option for both small and large tanks, with a recommended minimum tank size of 200 liters. They are known to pair up (male and female) and thrive in a well-established aquarium with ample algae for grazing. If algae levels are inadequate, supplementing their diet with algae-rich food like seaweed or spirulina is crucial.
Care and Hardiness
Requiring a tank environment with appropriate water conditions such as a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity range of 1.020-1.025, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and a carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH, these blennies exhibit a temperament that may lean towards aggression, especially towards other fish competing for food.
Reef Suitability
Noted as reef safe with caution, the Blackflap blenny can be kept in a reef setup, but supervision is advisable due to potential aggressive behavior towards food competitors.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up the aquarium for Blackflap blennies, it is essential to provide ample rock and stone structures for grazing algae. Ensuring a well-maintained environment with suitable hiding spots and maintaining algae growth for their natural diet is key to their care.
Behaviour
Known for their fun personality, these blennies can exhibit aggression towards other tank mates competing for food resources, emphasizing the importance of providing adequate grazing surfaces and supervision during feeding.
Feeding and Diet
Their diet mainly consists of macroalgae (such as seaweed/nori), microalgae like spirulina, and zooplankton such as Cyclops and pods. Supplementing with algae-rich foods is necessary if natural algae sources are insufficient.
Habitat and Distribution
In the wild, Blackflap blennies are typically found in regions across the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, and the East to Central/West Pacific. Their habitat ranges from rocky areas with algae growth to coral reefs, reflecting their preference for environments rich in algae for sustenance.