Bicolor blenny
Ecsenius bicolor
Ecsenius bicolor reaches up to 11 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a rounded head and large eyes. The coloration is distinctive: the anterior half of the body is dark brown to black, while the posterior half is bright yellow to orange. The fins are small, with a continuous dorsal fin. It has small comb-like teeth for grazing algae. Sexual dimorphism is subtle; males are slightly larger and more colorful during breeding.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 8.1–8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.02–1.025 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.1 |
Care
Care notes
A minimum tank size of 75 liters is recommended for one specimen, larger for multiple fish. Water parameters should be 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. The aquascape should include plenty of live rock with crevices for hiding. It is omnivorous, accepting algae-based foods (nori, spirulina) and small meaty prey (brine shrimp, mysis). Caution: it may jump, so a lid is necessary. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial towards other blennies. It is compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates.