Black Combtooth Blenny
Ecsenius namiyei
A sleek, dark blenny that grazes algae from reef rockwork with quiet confidence.
About
The black combtooth blenny (Ecsenius namiyei) is one of the more subtly colored members of a genus known for personality over flash. Rather than the bold patterns you see on some of its relatives, this species leans into deep, dusky tones that help it blend into the reef. Its range stretches across a broad swath of the western Pacific, from Taiwan down through the Solomon Islands, where it inhabits coral reef environments ranging from shallow estuaries to outer reef lagoons. In the wild it tends to favor the shallower reef flat zone, tucking into isolated outcrops of coral and sponge and rarely straying far from shelter. That cryptic, stay-close-to-home nature carries over into the aquarium, where it will quickly claim a favorite perch and spend much of its time resting and watching the tank with the characteristic blenny curiosity. As a dedicated herbivore, it grazes constantly on microalgae and benefits from a tank with plenty of live rock surface to pick at. Supplemental feeding with algae-based foods and occasional preparations like nori helps keep it in good condition. Intermediate care experience is generally recommended, mostly to ensure stable reef water quality and a diet that meets its herbivorous needs. Lifespan in good conditions can reach five to eight years.
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Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Black Combtooth Blenny get?
- The Black Combtooth Blenny reaches about 2.5–4.5" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Black Combtooth Blenny need?
- A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for the Black Combtooth Blenny.
- What water parameters does the Black Combtooth Blenny need?
- The Black Combtooth Blenny does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Black Combtooth Blenny aggressive?
- The Black Combtooth Blenny is semi-aggressive. It can work in a community with careful tankmate choices and enough space.
- What does the Black Combtooth Blenny eat?
- The Black Combtooth Blenny is a herbivore. It needs a plant-based diet such as algae, blanched vegetables, or spirulina-based foods.
- How long does the Black Combtooth Blenny live?
- With good care, the Black Combtooth Blenny typically lives 5-8 years.
- Is the Black Combtooth Blenny reef safe?
- The Black Combtooth Blenny is generally considered reef safe.