More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 300 litres / 79.25 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.0cm / 3.94inches |
| 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 Scarface blenny, also known as the Red-head blenny, belongs to the Blenniidae family Cirripectes. These blennies have an oblong shape with a long dorsal fin and are typically not very colorful, but they make up for it with their engaging personalities. They are relatively small, reaching a maximum size of about 10.0cm, making them suitable for both small and large aquariums.
Aquarium Suitability
With average hardiness, the Scarface blenny is considered suitable for aquariums. They are known to live in pairs, consisting of a male and female, adding an interesting dynamic to the tank. These fish thrive in well-established aquariums with ample algae on rocks and stones for grazing. If algae is scarce, supplementing their diet with algae-rich foods like Spirulina is recommended.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Requiring a minimum tank size of 300 liters, these blennies have relatively low demands but benefit from a well-maintained environment. They prefer water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, carbonate hardness between 8-12, specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C.
Reef Suitability
Considered reef safe with caution, the Scarface blenny can be housed in a reef tank. However, their temperament may lead to aggression towards other tank mates perceived as food competitors.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up the aquarium for the Scarface blenny, ensure there are plenty of rocks and stones with algae for them to graze on. Maintaining a stable environment with appropriate lighting and good water flow is key to their well-being. Additionally, offering hiding spots and ensuring compatibility with other tank inhabitants is essential.
Behaviour
These blennies are known for their quirky personalities and can be quite active in the aquarium. They may exhibit territorial behavior, especially around their preferred grazing spots. Observing their interactions with other fish can provide insights into their individual behavior within the tank.
Feeding and Diet
The recommended diet for the Scarface blenny includes macroalgae such as seaweed or nori, microalgae like Spirulina, small crustaceans such as krill and mysis, and zooplankton such as Cyclops and pods. Providing a varied diet rich in algae and small crustaceans will help ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Habitat and Distribution
These blennies are found in the Central/West Pacific region, specifically around the Hawaiian and Johnston Islands. They have been known to be confused with the closely related species Cirripectes variolosus. In the wild, they inhabit rocky areas with abundant algal growth, which should be replicated in the aquarium setting to mimic their natural habitat.