Barnacle Blenny 

Also known as Speckled Blenny, Leopard Blenny

The Barnacle Blenny is a charming and personable fish displaying intricate spotted patterns and expressive eyes. This small, peaceful blenny is an excellent algae grazer and makes a delightful addition to reef aquariums with its curious behavior and unique personality.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Acanthemblemaria hancocki
• Common Names: Barnacle Blenny, Speckled Blenny, Leopard Blenny
• Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches
• Lifespan: 3-5 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and curious; very personable
• Reef Compatibility: Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Beginner to moderate; hardy and adaptable

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide plenty of live rock with small crevices, holes, and caves. This blenny loves to perch in barnacle shells or small openings where it can retreat and observe its surroundings. Prefers established tanks with natural algae growth.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Stable water conditions are important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Standard filtration system
  • Protein skimmer (optional for smaller tanks)
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain healthy conditions for this hardy species.

Diet & Feeding

Barnacle Blennies are primarily carnivorous, unlike many other blennies. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, finely chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Copepods, amphipods from live rock
• Supplemental: Some microalgae and film algae from rocks
• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily
• Special Note: Less herbivorous than other blennies; requires meaty foods

Notes & Considerations

• Extremely personable with curious behavior; often becomes interactive with its owner.
• Will establish a favorite perch or hole and defend it from other small fish.
• Excellent for nano and small reef aquariums due to compact size.
• May be shy initially but becomes bolder once acclimated.
• Secure aquarium lid is recommended; can jump if startled.
• Generally peaceful but may show territoriality toward other blennies in smaller tanks.
• Spends much of its time perched, watching tank activity with expressive eyes.

Why Choose a Quarantined Barnacle Blenny?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this charming and personable species.