Will a Tailspot Blenny eat hair algae?

While they might occasionally nip at soft, short filamentous algae, they are not primarily hair algae eaters. They much prefer grazing on film algae, diatoms, and microalgae growing on the glass and live rock.

Why is my Tailspot Blenny hiding all the time?

It is entirely natural for this species to spend the vast majority of its time backed into a crevice or barnacle shell, especially in a new environment. They feel secure this way and will periodically dart out to feed once they settle in.

Can I keep two Tailspot Blennies in the same tank?

Unless you have a very large aquarium with vast amounts of rockwork or a confirmed mated pair, it is not recommended. They are territorial towards their own kind and will likely fight in a smaller setup.

Is the Tailspot Blenny safe to keep with corals?

Yes, they are completely reef safe. They will not consume or intentionally damage corals, although they may occasionally rest or perch on top of larger-polyp stony corals.

Do Tailspot Blennies jump?

Yes, they are easily startled and are well-known jumpers. A secure, tight-fitting mesh lid is essential to prevent them from jumping out of the aquarium.

MarineMarineBeginner

Tailspot Blenny

Ecsenius stigmatura

A charismatic and comical nano marine fish, easily identified by its dark tail spot and habit of observing the aquarium from rock crevices.

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Ideal Conditions

Temperature: 23 – 26 °C
pH range: 8.1 – 8.4
Hardness: 8 – 12 dGH
Salinity: 1.023 – 1.026 SG
Adult size: 5 – 6 cm
Nano tank (minimum): 50 litres+
Lifespan: 2 – 5 years
Diet: Herbivore
Water flow: Moderate
Preferred setup: Live rock with numerous small crevices and barnacle shells for hiding.

About the Tailspot Blenny

The Tailspot Blenny (*Ecsenius stigmatura*) is a highly sought-after nano reef fish belonging to the family Blenniidae. Famous for its prominent, highly mobile eyes and its quirky habit of reversing into tight rock crevices or empty barnacle shells, it spends hours observing the aquarium. This species is beloved not only for its vibrant personality but also for its peaceful nature, making it a fantastic and entertaining addition to marine aquariums of almost any size.

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Is it right for your tank?

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Where Tailspot Blenny comes from

Native range

Western Pacific, Coral Triangle

Countries / regions

Philippines, Indonesia

Habitat

Shallow coastal coral reefs, lagoons, and reef slopes with abundant microalgae and complex rockwork.

Primarily documented in the waters around the Philippines and the Moluccas.

Similar species

Bicolor Blenny
Ecsenius bicolor
Midas Blenny
Ecsenius midas
Lawnmower Blenny
Salarias fasciatus

We’re adding more full species guides as the catalogue grows.

Compatible tank mates

Reviewed guidance based on this species' recorded traits.

View all compatibility

Ocellaris Clownfish
Amphiprion ocellaris
Both species are peaceful and occupy completely different areas of the aquarium, preventing any territorial disputes.
Great
Skunk Cleaner Shrimp
Lysmata amboinensis
The blenny is entirely reef and invertebrate safe; a cleaner shrimp provides fascinating interactive behaviour without threat.
Great
Firefish Goby
Nemateleotris magnifica
A highly peaceful, mid-water dartfish that leaves bottom-dwelling blennies alone.
Great
Bicolor Blenny
Ecsenius bicolor
Having very similar body shapes, diets, and habits, two different blenny species may fight fiercely over territory in smaller tanks.
Compatible with caution
Dwarf Lionfish
Dendrochirus brachypterus
The tiny, slender body of the Tailspot Blenny makes it an easy and irresistible snack for any predatory fish.
Not recommended

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