More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 400 litres / 105.67 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 34.0cm / 13.39inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| 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 Convict blenny, scientifically known as Pholidichthys leucotaenia, undergoes a transformation in its stripe pattern from horizontal to vertical as it matures. This species can reach a maximum size of 34.0 cm and belongs to the Pholidichthyidae family.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable with care, the Convict blenny is hardy and can thrive in a tank with a minimum size of 400 liters. This species requires hiding places like caves and rocks, especially between live rocks, as well as ample sand for them to create small caves.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Being hardy, the Convict blenny is suitable for aquariums with specific conditions in terms of temperature (22.2-25.6°C), pH (8.1-8.4), salinity (1.020-1.025), and carbonate hardness (8-12 dKH). Regular feeding, several times a day, is necessary, particularly when newly introduced to the tank.
Reef Suitability
Reef safe with caution, this species can be a threat to smaller fish, larger crustaceans such as shrimps and crabs, and rearranges sand in the tank, potentially causing rock collapses if not secured properly.
Aquarium Setup
Setting up an aquarium for the Convict blenny should include enough hiding spots and sand for caves, along with stable rock formations to prevent collapses due to the fish's sand rearranging behavior.
Behaviour
The Convict blenny is mostly peaceful but can display aggression towards similar species. It may also dig into the sandy substrate, causing debris to swirl around the tank.
Feeding and Diet
This unique species feeds on various foods such as fish, larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, as well as small crustaceans including krill, mysis, and artemia. Feeding requirements may decrease if the fish can find natural food sources in the aquarium.
Dimorphism
The Convict blenny can coexist in pairs and has been successfully bred in captivity, making it a feasible option for aquarists looking for captive-bred specimens.
Habitat and Distribution
Natively found in the Western Central Pacific, ranging from the Philippines to the Solomon Islands, the Convict blenny is absent from Australian waters. In its natural habitat, it resides in small holes in sand and rocks and transitions from feeding on zooplankton to including fish and crustaceans in its diet as it matures.