Forktail Blenny
Meiacanthus atrodorsali
Saltwater Fish
Species Group: Blenny
Family: Blenniidae
Log in or create an account to add this species to your tanks.
Water parameters
Temp
76-80 F
Temperature
Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is critical for the survival of aquatic life.
pH 7.8 - 8.4 potential of HydrogenMeasuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.
NO3 1-20 ppm NitrateWhile less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels (above 40–80 ppm) are important to monitor because they can cause fish stress, stunted growth, and harmful algae blooms.
NO2 <0.0001 ppm NitriteIt is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia
PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm PhosphateIt is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.
NH3 <0.1 ppm AmmoniaIt is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death
Ca 380 - 450 ppm CalciumSupporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae
KH 8 - 12 dKH AlkalinityIt acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.
Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm MagnesiumIt enables coral growth by supporting skeletal formation, assists in metabolic processes, and ensures that calcium is available for corals, clams, and coralline algae.
SG 1.023 - 1.026 SG SalinityEssential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals
ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction PotentialA higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.
About Forktail Blenny
General information
Forktail Blenny, also known as Black-Finned Fang Blenny, is a beautiful saltwater species that can grow up to 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) in length. The body of the Forktail Blenny is elongated and cylindrical in shape, with a beautiful blend of black, white, and yellow stripes. They have long pointed tails, which give them a unique appearance. Forktail Blennies are typically peaceful and can be kept in a community aquarium with other non-aggressive fish. They are hardy and easy to care for, making them a popular choice for beginner aquarists.
Diet & nutrition
Forktail Blennies are omnivores and can be fed a varied diet that includes both meaty and vegetable matter. They will happily accept a variety of prepared foods, such as pellets, flakes, and frozen foods, including brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. They also enjoy fresh vegetables such as spirulina, algae, and lettuce. It is important to provide a balanced diet to maintain the health of Forktail Blennies.
Determining sex
There is no noticeable difference in appearance between male and female Forktail Blennies.
Breeding & spawning
Forktail Blennies are not commonly bred in captivity.
Diseases
Forktail Blennies are generally healthy and hardy fish, but they can be susceptible to common marine fish diseases such as ich, velvet, and bacterial infections. It is important to maintain good water quality and a balanced diet to prevent these diseases. If any signs of illness are noticed, it is recommended to seek veterinary care immediately.
Origination
Forktail Blennies are native to the Western Pacific Ocean, specifically in the waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.
Cautions
Forktail Blennies are not venomous, but they can become aggressive towards other blennies or fish of similar shape and size.
Acclimation process
It is important to properly acclimate Forktail Blennies to their new environment to prevent stress or shock. Slowly drip acclimating the fish for 1-2 hours is recommended.
All photos
Tap a photo to open the gallery viewer.