Bicolour Blenny

Microalgae. How we detest it!

Reef aquarists may become quite depressed as a result of it suffocating their corals or turning a once-beautiful reef tank into an overgrown meadow. We work to prevent this by lowering the levels of phosphate and nitrate, which are sources of food for algae, introducing herbivorous invertebrates (such as snails and hermit crabs) to control algae, and enlisting the help of fish that consume algae (such as tangs and rabbitfish, among others). These two fish families have members that can aid in regulating algal development, but they are big and require a lot of swimming space. However, there is still another species of aquatic herbivores that can join the fight against algae.

These are blennies, members of the family Blenniidae.

The bicolour blenny, also known as the bicolor blenny or Ecsenius bicolor, is a small and colorful fish that belongs to the family Blenniidae. It is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, and is commonly found in coral reefs.

Appearance-wise, the bicolour blenny has a slender and elongated body with a blunt head and a single dorsal fin that stretches along its back. It features a distinct color pattern, hence its name. The anterior half of its body is usually a vibrant blue or purple, while the posterior half is yellow or golden in color. This coloration gives it a striking and eye-catching appearance.

Bicolour have a beautiful slender and elongated bodies with a not so round but blunt head.

Bicolour blennies are known for their interesting behavior. They are active swimmers, constantly darting in and out of crevices and small holes in the reef. They are also known to perch on coral branches or rocks, often perching vertically with their heads facing downward.

These blennies are relatively peaceful and can be kept in aquariums. However, they may exhibit territorial behavior towards other blennies or similar species. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and live rock to explore and perch on. A varied diet consisting of both meaty and plant-based foods should be provided to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

In summary, the bicolour blenny is a colorful and active fish that can be found in coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region. Its striking appearance and interesting behavior make it a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts.

II. You would love the fish because…

It is simple to understand how the bicolor blenny came to have its moniker.

This little fish’s front half has a colour spectrum from brown to blue. the rear, too? It is a vivid orange-yellow colour.

The eel-like form and stunning appearance stand out well in a reef aquarium.

No one could possibly resist the cirri that protrude above their swollen eyes. They are adorable tiny aliens that jump around the rocks in quest of the next patch of algae.

Male bicolors change colour during the course of their life. The front (front) half glows a vivid blue during the spawning season to entice females.

Additionally, while the dorsal fin is continuous in both sexes, it extends somewhat longer down the tail in males.

They also have thicker “lips” on their faces, if you look closely. However, given their reduced size, it could be necessary to use a magnifying glass (along with a patient specimen).

The Bleniidae family, sometimes known as the “comb-tooth” blennies, includes the bicolor blenny.

You can see small rows of teeth with comb-like extensions within their mouths.

The structure aids in removing algae from corals and rocks. And because of this, they are the ideal complement to any marine tank that has sporadic outbreaks of this specific aquarium bug.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

Peaceful fish

IV. Species compatibility

Does well with most different species, aside from different blennies or fish sufficiently enormous to eat them.

V. How to feed this species?

Vegetable matter, including frozen and dried foods containing marine and blue-green algae.

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