Forktail Blenny – LiveAquaria
The Forktail Blenny, also known as the Lyretail Fang Blenny or Yellowtail Fang Blenny, has a caudal fin that resembles a fork, with two long exterior spines and five much shorter middle spines. The body is a pale blue that runs like watercolor into a bluish-yellow at the tail. Males are generally larger than females and experience a succession of color changes when breeding.
Requires a minimum tank size of 30 gallons with live rock for hunting and grazing. Best kept singly unless a breeding pair is maintained. Considered venomous and should be handled with caution around children with tank access, as it may perceive fingers as an attacker and deliver a painful bite.
Diet should consist of finely chopped meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Blennius fasciatus |
| Size (adult) | 3 to 4 inches |
| Water Temperature | 72–78°F |
| Water pH | 8.1–8.4 |
| Compatibility | Best with non-aggressive species; avoid small fish and invertebrates |
FAQ
What is the minimum tank size required for a Forktail Blenny?
A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is required, with live rock to support natural hunting and grazing behavior.
Is the Forktail Blenny safe around children?
The Forktail Blenny is considered venomous and may bite if it perceives fingers as an attacker. It should be kept with caution around children who have access to the tank.
What does the Forktail Blenny eat?
It should be fed finely chopped meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish.
Nicola Simpson –
The Forktail Blenny adds a striking visual element to my tank. The color change during breeding season is fascinating. I keep it alone to avoid stress. It’s active but not aggressive, and I’ve noticed it spends time grazing on live rock. Just make sure to handle it carefully.
Felicity Morgan –
Beautiful fish with a unique fin shape. I’ve had it for six months and it’s still vibrant. The only thing to note is it can be startled easily. I now keep it in a well-established tank with plenty of hiding spots.
Alexandra Ferguson –
It’s a nice addition to the tank, but I had to adjust my feeding schedule because it prefers small, finely chopped foods. I didn’t expect it to be so sensitive to handling. Still, the color change when breeding is worth it.