Harptail Blenny

Name
Harptail Blenny


Scientific Name:
Meiacanthus mossambicus


Maximum Size:
5” (13 cm)

s&r_harptail_blenny
Description

Name
Harptail Blenny.

Scientific Name
Meiacanthus mossambicuss

Description
One of the "tell-tale" features of the Harptail Blenny is the harp-shaped yellow caudal fin. It has jet-black dorsal and anal fins. The body has a green coloration in a band underneath the black dorsal fin and on the belly. The harptail Blenny is an active fish that can be seen swimming in the open in search for food.

Temperament & Captive Care
The Harptail Blenny is a pieceful fish, but will defend itself if threatrened. Like other blennies in the Meiacanthus family the harptail Blenny has venomous fangs (therefore the name fang blenny). While the venom is typipcally not dangerous to humans hand feeding and handling without gloves is not recommended. The fish do best in aquariums of 30 gallons or larger with plenty of liverock and hiding places.

Feeding
Most Blennies are omnivorous feeders, meaning that they will consume a variety of different food types. They can be fed high quality fish pellets developed for marine fish, but prefer meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp and krill. Their metabolism is high so it is recommended that they are fed 2-3 times per day.