Lawnmower blenny
Salarias fasciatus
Family : Blenniidae
Small herbivorous blenny highly valued in marine aquariums for its efficiency in controlling filamentous algae. It is hardy and easy to keep.
Description
The lawnmower blenny reaches up to 14 cm. Its elongated, laterally compressed body is brownish-green mottled with light and dark spots, with a continuous dorsal fin. It has small comb-like teeth for grazing algae. Males are slightly larger and have a taller dorsal fin than females. It is a territorial fish but generally peaceful towards other species.
Habitat
Region :
Shallow coral reefs, rocky areas and reef flats rich in algae. It is often found on hard substrates where it grazes on microalgae and periphyton. It inhabits lagoons and reef slopes down to about 10 m depth.
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Tank of at least 75 L with moderate lighting and plenty of live rock for grazing. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. It feeds mainly on algae but accepts spirulina-based foods and blanched vegetables. Avoid keeping with other herbivorous blennies as it may become aggressive. It can jump, so a lid is recommended.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
