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Ember Blenny (Cirripectes stigmaticus)

Ember Blenny

Cirripectes stigmaticus
Family
Blenny
Care level
Intermediate
Temperament
Peaceful
Reef safe
Reef safe
Max size
10 cm
Min tank
100 L · 26 gal
Origin
Indo-Pacific
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Nori, Algae wafers, Spirulina, Herbivore pellets

Overview

The Ember Blenny is a small, richly coloured combtooth blenny with a deep reddish-orange body, sometimes marked with fine spotting, making it a striking addition to a nano or medium reef tank. Its compact size makes it a good fit for smaller systems where larger algae-grazing fish wouldn't be appropriate.

Like other combtooth blennies it spends its time picking algae film off rock and glass, and does best in an established tank with natural algae growth already present.

Its small size, calm temperament, and full reef safety make it a popular pick for nano reef keepers wanting some natural algae control and colour without any risk to corals or invertebrates.

Compatibility

Ember Blennies are peaceful and reef safe, leaving corals, clams, and invertebrates alone. They can show mild territoriality toward other blennies of similar shape and colour in smaller tanks, but generally cause no issues with the wider reef community.

Health & quarantine

This species relies on natural algae growth for a significant part of its diet, so tanks without adequate algae film need consistent supplemental feeding to avoid gradual starvation. Quarantine of two to four weeks is recommended good practice, and as with all blennies, avoid copper-based treatments due to their lack of scales.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Ember Blenny suitable for a nano tank?
Yes, its small adult size makes it a good fit for nano and small reef tanks.
Is the Ember Blenny reef safe?
Yes, fully reef safe with corals and invertebrates.
What should I feed an Ember Blenny in a very clean tank?
Supplement with nori, algae wafers, and spirulina-based foods to make up for limited natural algae growth.
Can I keep two Ember Blennies together?
Possible in a larger tank with plenty of rock, though two in a small tank may show mild territorial disputes.
Will an Ember Blenny jump out of the tank?
It can if startled, so a secure lid is recommended.

Care guidance is drawn from our own experience — every fish is an individual, so treat it as a starting point, not a guarantee. Not sure if a species suits your tank? Come ask us in store. New to the terms? Read the care-terms glossary.