Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Forktail Blenny has a large distribution across the Pacific Ocean. This dazzling and overall peaceful blenny makes an excellent addition into a reef aquarium. Forktail blennies have a grey-blue body that transitions to a yellow near the posterior end that goes into the caudal fin giving it a “forked” appearance, and a black line that runs through the eye and up into the dorsal fin. Similar in appearance to the Black Lined Blenny (Meiacanthus nigrolineatus), but note the subtle differences in patterning between the two. Blennies within Meiacanthus are called ‘Fang blennies’ because they have a venomous bite. This bite is typically administered when the fish is threatened by, or being consumed by, a predatory fish. Because of this hobbyists do not need to be overly concerned having their hands in the aquarium, but should exercise caution when handling this species in a net. If biten, the sensation is similar to a bee sting and is not life-threatening; rinse under hot water. An adult Forktail blenny can reach a size of approximately 5″.
Diet Requirements: The Forktail blenny is omnivorous. A diet consisting of high quality, vitamin enriched frozen preparations is absolutely necessary to maintain optimal health, coloration, and immune function. Such foods can include, but are not limited to, brine shrimp, calanus, and rotifers. Frozen food mixes that contain algae such as Spirulina or Chlorella are encouraged. We highly encourage soaking frozen foods in vitamin and fatty acid supplements. A Forktail blenny may accept high quality flake and pellet foods.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 30 gallon aquarium is ideal to house a Forktail blenny. Blennies enjoy a variety of rock work and crevices to take refuge in and on; Forktail blennies do spend a considerable amount of time within the water column compared to other blennies, however. Do not house a Forktail blenny with overly aggressive and pugnacious tank mates. Forktail blennies will almost entirely ignore most other fish, though territorial behavior could be exhibited toward a fish of similar body shape or dietary niche. This blenny would feel right at home in a reef setting, and poses no threat to corals or invertebrates. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Medium: 2” to 2-1/2”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
