Flametail Blenny

The Flametail Blenny (Emblemaria pandionis) is a small, vibrant species known for its fiery orange tail and playful personality. This unique blenny adds a pop of color and character to reef tanks and is a favorite among aquarists who appreciate its active nature and distinctive appearance.

(REEF SAFE / BEGINNER)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Flametail Blenny, Orange-tail Blenny, Flame Tail Blenny
• Scientific Name: Emblemaria pandionis
• Family: Chaenopsidae
• Origin/Habitat: Native to the western Atlantic, particularly found in coral reefs, rocky areas, and seagrass beds in the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico.
• Maximum Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6 cm)
• Lifespan: Typically 3–5 years with proper care
• Level of Difficulty: Easy; the Flametail Blenny is a hardy species that does well in a variety of tank setups.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: The Flametail Blenny is known for its striking fiery orange tail, contrasting with its darker, more muted body coloration. Its body is typically brown or olive, with faint markings and a slightly translucent appearance.
• Body Shape & Structure: A small, slender fish with a slightly compressed body and large eyes. It has a characteristic long dorsal fin that is often seen waving or flaring in its environment.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters) or larger.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide plenty of live rock and crevices for hiding and perching. Blennies like to have hiding spots and places to dart in and out of for protection.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Omnivorous
• Preferred Foods: The Flametail Blenny enjoys a varied diet, including algae, small crustaceans, and detritus. It will also accept high-quality pellets, flakes, and frozen foods such as mysis shrimp.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 times daily, offering a variety of foods to keep it healthy and active.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful and active, the Flametail Blenny is known for its inquisitive nature and can often be seen perched on rocks or swimming around the tank. While it is not aggressive, it can be territorial, particularly when it comes to its chosen hiding spots.
• Social Behavior: Can be kept singly or in small groups. It is generally peaceful with other species, but it may show territoriality toward other blennies or similarly sized fish.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most peaceful fish, especially other small species. Avoid aggressive or very active fish that may stress it out. It gets along well with other species that are not highly territorial.
• Activity Level: Active and curious, often darting between rocks and picking at algae. It is frequently seen perching in its favorite spot, observing its environment.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: The Flametail Blenny is very easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. It requires minimal maintenance beyond ensuring stable water parameters and a varied diet.
• Special Requirements: It enjoys a well-established tank with plenty of hiding spots. It will benefit from live rock and other reef tank elements where it can find shelter and food.
• Breeding Info: Little is known about breeding the Flametail Blenny in captivity, and it is rarely bred in home aquariums.
• Additional Notes: The Flametail Blenny is an entertaining and colorful addition to any reef tank. It serves a useful role in helping to keep algae levels in check and adds a lot of personality with its unique behavior and appearance.