Canary Blenny 

Also known as Yellow Combtooth Blenny, Canary Fang Blenny

The Canary Blenny is a vibrant and hardy species displaying brilliant yellow coloration that brightens any reef aquarium. This peaceful and personable blenny is an excellent algae grazer and makes an ideal addition for aquarists seeking both beauty and function.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Meiacanthus oualanensis
• Common Names: Canary Blenny, Canary Fang Blenny, Yellow Fang Blenny
• Adult Size: Up to 4.5 inches
• Lifespan: 4-6 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; can be kept in pairs or groups
• Reef Compatibility: Keep with caution
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; 50+ gallons preferred for pairs
• Experience Level: Beginner; very hardy and adaptable

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample live rock with caves, crevices, and swimming space. Unlike many blennies, this species is more active in open water. Prefers tanks with some algae growth for supplemental grazing.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Tolerant of typical reef parameters
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Standard filtration system
  • Protein skimmer
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain healthy, stable conditions for this hardy species.

Diet & Feeding

Canary Blennies are omnivores with diverse dietary needs. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, spirulina flakes, herbivore pellets
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae sheets, spirulina
• Natural Grazing: Film algae and microalgae from live rock
• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily
• Special Note: Provide both meaty and vegetable-based foods for optimal health.

Notes & Considerations

• One of the few blenny species that can be kept in pairs or small groups without aggression.
• Possesses venomous fangs used for defense (not for feeding); venom is mild but can cause localized pain if bitten.
• More active swimmers than typical bottom-dwelling blennies; utilizes mid-water column.
• Very peaceful toward all tankmates; venom provides protection from predators.
• A secure aquarium lid is essential; capable jumpers.
• Bright yellow coloration remains vivid with proper diet and care.
• Excellent for community reef tanks due to peaceful temperament.
• Often swims in pairs in the wild; this behavior can be replicated in larger aquariums.
• Less territorial than most other blenny species.

Why Choose a Quarantined Canary 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 vibrant and peaceful species.