Blennies

Blennies are not actually one species of fish,  but a term applied to several varieties of marine aquarium fish sharing the same behavior and general morphology. Mention the popular blennies in a roomful of saltwater aquarium enthusiasts, and you may walk out scratching your head. Although they share specific characteristics, blennies can differ greatly in appearance and behavior. Many of them originate in the Pacific Ocean.

For the saltwater aquarium enthusiast it is enought to know that blennies are generally small fish with elongated bodies, relatively large eyes and mouths, and a blunt head.They generally have a rounded tail and a long dorsal fin, usually running the entire length of their body.

Blennies are bottom fish. Some species like to have places they can burrow or hide. Shells and various bottom structures provide them a good place to hide. With some exceptions, blennies are omnivores, and require a diet of plant matter, along with frozen or live foods chopped up small enough for them to swallow whole. They are highly resistant to diseases, if you maintain your salt water aquarium tank well.

Since the normally peaceful blennies can be aggressive toward their own species, experts advise fish owners to keep only one blenny per 75-gallon tank. Blennies can also wind up as prey to other aggressive fish. Maintain the peace by pairing your blenny with compatible fish.

As with any fish you add to your tank, be sure to do your research so you will know which blennies will best suit your purposes.