The Starry Blenny (Salarias ramosus) is a captivating marine fish known for its unique appearance and beneficial algae-grazing habits. Native to the Western Central Pacific, particularly from the Philippines to northwestern Australia, this species thrives in shallow, protected inshore reefs and estuaries, typically at depths up to 15 meters.
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 114 liters (30 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 14 cm (5.5 inches)
• Diet: Primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae
• Be aware of: May exhibit territorial behavior towards similar species; requires ample hiding spots; known to jump, so a secure lid is essential.
Appearance and Coloration
The Starry Blenny features a dark brown body adorned with numerous small pearly spots and occasional white blotches across its back, giving it a starry appearance. Distinctive white frills on its head add to its unique charm.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In their natural environment, Starry Blennies inhabit shallow reefs and estuaries, often forming small groups near reef rubble margins or residing solitarily on rock or coral outcrops. They are known for their inquisitive nature, frequently perching on rocks or coral branches to observe their surroundings. While generally peaceful, they may display territorial behavior towards similar-looking species or during breeding periods.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Starry Blenny in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 30-gallon (114 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide sufficient space.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 22°C – 27°C (72°F – 80°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping: Incorporate ample live rock to promote natural algae growth and create hiding spots. The presence of caves and crevices will provide secure retreats, reducing stress and encouraging natural behaviors.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting will support algae proliferation, aligning with the blenny’s dietary needs.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow is suitable, mimicking their natural reef habitats.
Maintaining stable water conditions and a mature tank environment is crucial, as fluctuations can adversely affect their health.
Diet and Feeding
Starry Blennies are primarily herbivorous, with a strong preference for algae:
• Natural Diet: In the wild, they graze on filamentous algae, diatoms, tiny crustaceans, and detritus.
• Captive Diet: While they will consume naturally occurring algae in the aquarium, supplementation is often necessary:
• Offer vegetable matter, including frozen and dried foods containing marine and blue-green algae.
• Provide spirulina-based flake and pellet foods.
• Include occasional meaty foods such as mysis and brine shrimp.
Feeding small portions once or twice daily helps maintain their energy levels and overall health.
Compatibility and Social Structure
The Starry Blenny is generally peaceful but exhibits specific social behaviors:
• Territoriality: May become aggressive towards other blennies or similar-looking fish, particularly in smaller tanks. It’s advisable to keep only one per tank unless a mated pair is introduced in a sufficiently large aquarium.
• Tank Mates: Compatible with a variety of peaceful community fish. Caution is advised when housing with very docile species to prevent potential harassment.
• Reef Compatibility: While they are beneficial for algae control, some individuals have been known to nip at small-polyped stony corals, large-polyped stony corals, and clam mantles, especially if underfed. Monitoring their behavior in reef setups is recommended.
Important Considerations
• Tank Maturity: Introduce them to well-established aquariums with sufficient natural algae to prevent starvation.
• Jumping Behavior: They are known to leap from open tanks, so a secure lid is essential to prevent escape.
• Health Monitoring: Regular observation is necessary to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition, especially if algae levels decline.