Tailspot Blenny 

Also known as Tail Spot Blenny, Signal Blenny

The Tailspot Blenny is a small and personable species featuring a distinctive black spot on its tail fin and attractive mottled coloration. This hardy blenny is an effective algae grazer and makes an excellent choice for nano and small reef aquariums with its compact size and entertaining behavior.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Ecsenius stigmatura
• Common Names: Tailspot Blenny, Tail Spot Blenny, Signal Blenny
• Adult Size: Up to 2.5 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; 20+ gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Beginner; hardy and easy to maintain

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide live rock with caves, small crevices, and perching spots. This small blenny needs secure hiding places and elevated vantage points. Prefers established tanks with natural film algae growth.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Adaptable to typical reef conditions
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Standard filtration system
  • Protein skimmer (optional for nano tanks)
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain stable conditions for this small species.

Diet & Feeding

Tailspot Blennies are omnivores with herbivorous leanings. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: Small herbivore pellets, spirulina flakes, algae-based foods
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed (finely chopped), marine algae, spirulina
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops (occasional supplement)
• Natural Grazing: Film algae, microalgae, and diatoms from live rock
• Feeding Frequency: Once daily, plus continuous grazing
• Special Note: Small mouth requires appropriately sized food particles

Notes & Considerations

• Excellent choice for nano reef aquariums due to small adult size.
• Effective algae grazer that helps control film algae in smaller systems.
• Very personable and curious; often becomes interactive despite small size.
• The distinctive black spot on the tail fin is the key identifying feature.
• Will defend territory from other blennies; only one per small tank.
• Secure aquarium lid is essential; capable jumpers despite small size.
• Generally peaceful toward all other species.
• May be outcompeted for food by larger, more aggressive feeders.
• Spends time both perched and actively grazing surfaces.
• One of the best blenny choices for aquariums under 30 gallons.
• Less demanding of constant algae than larger grazing blennies.

Why Choose a Quarantined Tailspot 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 functional nano reef species.