Ecsenius nalolo

Smith, 1959

Nalolo Blenny

Range: Western Indian Ocean: North to Djetta, Saudi Arabia and south to Sodwana Bay, South Africa.

Size: 3 inches (7 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabits shallow algae containing coral reefs and usually found at depths between 3 – 40 feet (1 – 12 m) where it feeds mostly on algae.

General Husbandry: Rarely seen in the trade and usually having a pale tan body with several lengthwise rows of white dots.

Can be maintained in either fish-only or reef aquariums having rocky areas with caves and holes to hide and rest in when needing to do so, and if feasible, containing heavy growths of algae that it can dine on.

Tankmates must be peaceful, as even moderately aggressive tankmates will prevent this species from getting its share of the food when available.

Requires a diet high in vegetable matter, and if sufficient aquarium algae is not present, its diet must be supplemented with vegetable matter including frozen and dried foods containing ‘marine’ algae and especially Spirulina algae. It should be fed as often as necessary to maintain its health.

Taxonomy:

Order: Perciformes

Suborder: Blennioidei

Family: Blenniidae

Genus: Ecsenius

FYI: Unless there is a sufficient amount of greens this fish will slowly waste away.

One per aquarium.

A good jumper, so you may need a covered tank.

Experience Level: Beginner

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Herbivore

Coral Safe: With caution

Fish Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: With caution

Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+

Aquarium Environment: Reef or fish-only aquarium

Tankmates: Peaceful

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Temperature Range: 72 - 82°F (22 – 27°C)

Specific Gravity: 1.020 - 1.026

pH: 8.0 - 8.5