Barnacle Blenny
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Barnacle Blenny (Acanthemblemaria macrospilus)
Overview
The Barnacle Blenny (Acanthemblemaria macrospilus) is a small, reef-dwelling blenny native to the eastern Pacific, particularly along the coasts of Central America and southern Mexico. It is named for its habit of residing in empty barnacle shells and small crevices on coral reefs and rocky substrates.
This species is ideal for nano-reef and small reef aquariums due to its small size, peaceful temperament, and interesting behavior, though it requires plenty of hiding spaces to thrive.
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 38–75 litres (10–20 US gallons)
Temperature: 24–27 °C (75–81 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: < 10 ppm
Aquascape:
Provide plentiful live rock with small crevices and shells for shelter. Open swimming areas are not required, but hiding spaces are essential. Moderate water flow and stable water parameters are crucial for health.
Diet and Feeding
The Barnacle Blenny is carnivorous, feeding primarily on planktonic and small invertebrate prey in the wild.
Recommended Foods:
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Micro-sized frozen foods (rotifers, baby brine shrimp)
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Finely chopped mysis shrimp and small crustaceans
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Specialized micro-pellets for small blennies
Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions. Juveniles require very small food items to match their tiny mouths.
Temperament and Compatibility
The Barnacle Blenny is peaceful and non-aggressive, making it compatible with most other small, non-aggressive reef fish.
Suitable Tankmates:
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Small gobies, clownfish, dwarf wrasses, and other nano-reef fish
Avoid:
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Large, aggressive, or predatory fish that could consume or stress it
They are highly site-attached, often returning to their chosen shell or crevice after exploring.
Reef Compatibility
✅ Reef Safe
Barnacle Blennies are fully reef safe, posing no threat to corals, sessile invertebrates, or other small reef inhabitants. Their primary role is as a micro-predator of tiny plankton and detritus, contributing to a balanced reef ecosystem.
Additional Information
Maximum Size: 3–4 cm (1–1.5 inches)
Lifespan: 2–4 years in captivity
Difficulty Level: Intermediate (requires micro-food and appropriate habitat)
Natural Behavior: Secretive, crevice-dwelling, planktivore
Origin: Eastern Pacific – Central America to southern Mexico
Coloration: Pale to sandy body with subtle markings, allowing camouflage in shells and crevices
Summary
The Barnacle Blenny (Acanthemblemaria macrospilus) is a tiny, peaceful, reef-safe blenny perfect for nano-reef or small reef aquariums. It requires ample crevices or shells, stable water parameters, and appropriately sized micro-foods. When properly cared for, it exhibits fascinating site-attached behavior, adding both visual interest and functional micro-predation to the reef environment.
| SKU | Barnacle Blenny |
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