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Meiacanthus grammistes
Beautiful small blenny with yellow and black stripes. Has venomous fangs for defense but harmless to humans. Entertaining hole-dwelling behavior. Hardy and easy.
The striped fang blenny (Meiacanthus grammistes) is a small marine fish of the genus Meiacanthus in the family Blenniidae, found in the western Pacific. It is distinguished by an attractive pattern of black longitudinal stripes on a yellow ground, and, as its English name implies, it bears venomous fangs in the lower jaw. These fangs are used not for attack but mainly for defense against predators and pose little danger to people. Because it is venomous it is seldom attacked by other fish and fares relatively safely in a community tank. It is popular for its endearing habit of darting in and out of rock crevices and drifting through the water, and being hardy and a good eater it is easy for beginner-to-intermediate keepers. A lid to prevent jumping is reassuring.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Striped Fang Blenny lives 4-6 years.
The Striped Fang Blenny grows to 8-12cm.
The ideal temperature for the Striped Fang Blenny is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Coral reefs of the western Pacific
Lifespan
4-6 years
Size
Sources: LiveAquaria
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / Ministry of the Environment Specified Animal List / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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8-12cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Omnivore (zooplankton, flakes, frozen food)
60cm+. Provide live rock with hiding holes
Keep the water at a stable 24-27°C. It drifts in and out of rock crevices, so provide both hiding places and open water.
Hardy and feeds readily, taking zooplankton as well as flakes and frozen food. An omnivore that's easy to feed.
Peaceful but can defend with fangs, safe with small fish
The venomous fangs in its lower jaw are defensive and rarely harm people, but don't grab it with bare hands.
Jumper. Keep lid secured
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Striped Fang Blenny is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Striped Fang Blenny is 4-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Striped Fang Blenny typically reaches 8-12cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Striped Fang Blenny feeds on: Omnivore (zooplankton, flakes, frozen food). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Striped Fang Blenny varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026