Molly Miller Blenny 

Also known as Molly Miller, Combtooth Blenny

The Molly Miller Blenny is a hardy and efficient algae grazer native to the Caribbean and Western Atlantic. With its mottled brown and tan camouflage pattern and entertaining personality, this blenny is an excellent functional addition to reef aquariums seeking natural algae control.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Scartella cristata
• Common Names: Molly Miller Blenny, Molly Miller
• Adult Size: Up to 4 inches
• Lifespan: 4-6 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful but territorial toward other blennies
• Reef Compatibility: Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Beginner; very hardy and undemanding

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide abundant live rock with caves, crevices, and flat surfaces for grazing. This blenny needs hiding spots and extensive rock surfaces covered with film algae. Prefers established tanks with mature algae growth.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Very tolerant of varied conditions
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Standard filtration system
  • Protein skimmer
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain suitable conditions for this adaptable species.

Diet & Feeding

Molly Miller Blennies are primarily herbivorous with strong grazing behavior. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: Herbivore pellets, spirulina flakes, algae wafers
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae sheets, spirulina (essential supplement)
• Frozen Foods: Herbivore preparations, occasional mysis shrimp
• Natural Grazing: Film algae, microalgae, diatoms, and some hair algae from rocks and glass
• Feeding Frequency: Supplemental feeding once daily; grazes continuously
• Special Note: Requires constant access to algae; provide prepared algae if tank lacks sufficient growth

Notes & Considerations

• Excellent algae control species; very effective at managing nuisance algae including some hair algae.
• Extremely hardy and adaptable; one of the easiest blennies to maintain.
• Mottled camouflage coloration helps it blend with rockwork; may be less visible than brightly colored species.
• Very personable despite cryptic appearance; often becomes quite bold.
• Will defend territory from other blennies; keep only one per tank unless very large.
• A secure aquarium lid is essential; capable jumpers.
• More tolerant of temperature fluctuations than many marine fish.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates except conspecifics and similar blennies.
• May perch on corals occasionally but causes no damage.
• Can survive in tanks with less-than-perfect conditions, though optimal care is always recommended.

Why Choose a Quarantined Molly Miller 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 hardworking and resilient species.