Tailspot Blenny

Overview

The Tailspot Blenny is a small, characterful reef fish named for the bold dark spot at the base of its tail. It spends its day perched on rock or glass, tail flicking, before darting out to graze on algae film — quickly becoming one of the more entertaining personalities in a tank rather than just another fish swimming laps.

Hardy, easy to feed, and genuinely useful as an algae grazer, it's a great choice for reef keepers of any experience level who want a small, reef-safe fish with plenty of character.

Compatibility

Tailspot Blennies are peaceful towards other species but can be territorial with other blennies or similarly shaped fish, especially in a smaller tank. As a rule, keep just one Tailspot Blenny per tank unless the aquarium is large with plenty of rockwork to divide up territories.

They are fully reef safe and won't bother corals, invertebrates, or clean-up crew, making them a solid addition to a mixed reef. Good tankmates include most peaceful reef fish, gobies, clownfish, and dwarf angels; best avoided are other blennies or boisterous, aggressive species that might bully it off its favourite perch.

Health & quarantine

Tailspot Blennies are generally hardy once settled, but do best introduced to a mature tank with some natural algae growth already established rather than a brand-new setup. Acclimate slowly as with any new fish, and quarantine before adding to the main display. A tight-fitting lid is worth having, as blennies are notorious jumpers, particularly when first settling in or if startled.