More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 100 litres / 26.42 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 5.0cm / 1.97inches |
| Reef Compatible | Often reef safe |
| Temperament | Mostly peaceful but might be aggressive towards similar species |
| 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 Bath's comb-tooth, scientifically known as Ecsenius bathi, is a member of the Blenniidae family. These fish are typically small, reaching a maximum size of 5.0cm, and are native to the Western Central Pacific, specifically found in Indonesia and Malaysia. They are characterized by their oblong shape, long dorsal fin, and often muted colors.
Aquarium Suitability
Highly suitable for most aquariums, Bath's comb-tooth blennies are popular for fish tanks due to their ease of care and adaptability to various tank sizes. They are hardy and can thrive in well-established tanks with ample hiding spots, such as between live rocks, for their comfort.
Demands, Care and Hardiness
Hardy and adaptable, these fish do well in aquariums with alkaline water conditions (pH of 8.1-8.4) and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. They thrive best when provided with a primary diet of algae-based foods, supplemented by a variety of frozen foods like krill, mysis, and spirulina to ensure a balanced diet and strong immune system.
Reef Suitability
Bath's comb-tooth blennies are often considered reef-safe, making them a compatible choice for reef aquariums. They can coexist with a variety of reef inhabitants but may exhibit aggression towards similar species or conspecifics.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Bath's comb-tooth blennies, it is essential to create a well-run environment with rocks and stones covered in algae for grazing. Providing hiding places and ample swimming space is crucial for their well-being. Maintaining a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 is recommended for optimal health.
Behaviour
Known for their intriguing and lively personalities, Bath's comb-tooth blennies often exhibit playful and curious behaviors in the aquarium. They are mostly peaceful but may display territorial aggression towards similar species or intruders in their space.
Feeding and Diet
These blennies have a diverse diet that includes macroalgae (seaweed/nori), microalgae (spirulina), small crustaceans (krill, mysis, artemia), and zooplankton (Cyclops, pods). Ensuring a balanced mix of these foods helps meet their nutritional needs and encourages natural feeding behaviors.
Dimorphism
While Bath's comb-tooth blennies do not exhibit significant dimorphic characteristics, they may display subtle differences in size or coloration between males and females. Captive reproduction of these fish is possible under suitable conditions, with proper diet and breeding setups facilitating successful spawning.
Habitat and Distribution
Found in the waters of Australia, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific region, Bath's comb-tooth blennies inhabit rocky reefs and coastal areas where they can graze on algae in their natural habitat. Their distribution primarily covers the marine environments of these regions, specifically thriving in areas with abundant algae for sustenance.