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Ecsenius stigmatura
A blenny named for black spot at tail base. Small and eats algae.
The tailspot blenny (Ecsenius stigmatura) comes from reefs around the Philippines and Indonesia and is named for the dark spot at the base of the tail. Adults stay at 5-7 cm and suit tanks of 45-60 cm. Like the related bicolour and Midas blennies it is an omnivore with a herbivorous leaning, picking filamentous algae off rock and helping with algae control. It takes up residence in a small hole in the live rock and peers out at the tank, which is a large part of its charm. It is hardy and easy to feed, but it will thin out in a tank with little algae, so supplement with a vegetable-based prepared food or nori. It is reef-safe, though the odd individual will nip at clam mantles.
The Tailspot Blenny lives 3-5 years.
The Tailspot Blenny grows to 5-7cm.
The ideal temperature for the Tailspot Blenny is 24〜26℃.
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
5-7cm
Temperature
24〜26℃
Algae, Pellets
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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Adults are small at 5-7cm and can live in a 45-60cm tank. Provide live rock with small holes for it to make its home.
Keep a stable 24-26°C and specific gravity 1.023-1.025. Hardy, but small tanks change quickly, so don't skip water changes.
An omnivore leaning herbivorous that grazes filamentous algae on rock. It loses weight in algae-poor tanks, so also offer plant-based pellets or seaweed sheets.
Peaceful and well suited to small tanks. Harmless to corals, though the occasional individual nips at clam mantles.
Charming fish that inhabits live rock holes
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 Tailspot Blenny is 24〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Tailspot Blenny is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Tailspot Blenny typically reaches 5-7cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Tailspot Blenny feeds on: Algae, Pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Tailspot Blenny varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026