Forktail Blenny - Meiacanthus atrodorsalis
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Details
The Forktail Blenny (Meiacanthus atrodorsalis) is characterized by the long, yellow edges of its caudal fin. The front half its body is blue-grey which fades to yellow towards the rear of the fish. There is a black diagonal line through the eyes, and black accents on the dorsal fin. The amount of blue can vary between individuals and region.
Many different species and varieties of blennies enter the aquarium trade regularly. The "Fangblennies" from the genus Meiacanthus are different from many other groups in that, rather than perching on surface, they hover and swim higher in the water and dart into the rockwork for safety. Their bodies are much more elongated. The name "fangblenny" comes from the teeth on these fish. While some other similar blennies use their "fangs" to prey on other fish and bite their scales, Meiacanthus blennies are safe to be kept with other tankmates. However, their sharp teeth are slightly venomous. The venom is very mild compared to that found in lionfish, scorpionfish and rabbitfish, but avoid risky behavior like hand-feeding these fish and give them space while working in the aquarium. They generally use their bite as a defense only.
Blennies can be kept with most other community tankmates like damsels, clownfish and angels. Fangblennies typically do not tolerate others of the same species except in very large aquariums with enough territory to accommodate their need for space. They are safe for reef aquariums and will not harm most invertebrates, with the possible exception of small crustaceans like Sexy Shrimp. They spend most of the time on or around the bottom, or perching in the rockwork of the aquarium. Feed a varied meaty diet of frozen and prepared foods like flakes, pellets, brine or mysis shrimp, algae, scallop and similar items.
Specifications
Specifications | |
MPN | F91 0007 0353 |
Manufacturer | That Fish Place |
Common Name | Forktail Blenny |
Scientific Name | Meiacanthus atrodorsalis |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Reef Safe | Yes |
Invert Safe | Yes |
Community Safe | Yes |
Max Size (in inches) | 5 |
Min Tank Size (in gallons) | 30 |
Origin | western Pacific |
Specific Gravity Range | 1.020-1.024 |
pH Range | 8.0-8.4 |
Diet | Omnivore |
Temperature Range | 75-82 |
Venomous | Yes, slightly (bite) |
Internal Id | 13368 |
State Restrictions |
Alaska |
Armed Forces Americas |
Armed Forces Europe |
Armed Forces Pacific |
California |
Hawaii |
Puerto Rico |