At SaltwaterReefCo, we love helping our clients create thriving aquatic environments, and few saltwater fish bring as much charming personality and unique behavior to a reef tank as Gobies and Blennies. These small but captivating marine fish are adored by aquarists for their fascinating mannerisms, from the Blenny's comical "hopping" from rock to rock to the Goby's meticulous sand sifting and burrow-building partnerships.
While often confused for one another due to their size and similar habitats, Gobies and Blennies have distinct traits that make them a rewarding addition to a well-maintained system. Their small size and peaceful nature make them a great choice for both nano and larger reef aquariums. Here's what you need to know about keeping these magnificent creatures:
Tank Requirements
Both Gobies and Blennies are bottom-dwelling fish that spend most of their time in or around the rockwork and substrate.
Minimum Tank Size: For a single Goby or Blenny, a 20-gallon aquarium is often sufficient. However, for most species, a larger tank provides a more stable environment and more space for them to establish territory.
For a Group: Most species of Gobies and Blennies are best kept as a single individual or a mated pair. Introducing multiple individuals of the same species can lead to aggression, especially in smaller tanks.
Aquascaping: This is a crucial aspect of their care. A well-established sand bed is essential for burrowing Gobies, and ample live rock with plenty of caves, crevices, and perches is vital for both species to feel secure and establish their territory.
Filtration & Flow: Robust filtration (sump, protein skimmer, refugium) is crucial for maintaining pristine water quality. These fish generally prefer moderate to gentle water flow. It is important to have a tight-fitting lid, as some Blennies are known to be jumpers.
Water Parameters
Gobies and Blennies are marine fish and demand stable, high-quality saltwater conditions, typical of a healthy reef tank.
Temperature: Maintain a consistent water temperature between 74-80°F (23-27°C).
pH: A stable pH range of 8.1 to 8.4 is ideal.
Water Changes: Regular partial water changes (10-20% weekly or bi-weekly) are essential for replenishing trace elements and preventing nutrient buildup.
Diet and Feeding
The feeding habits of Gobies and Blennies can vary. While most are carnivores, some Blennies are herbivores, so a varied diet is key.
Varied Diet: Offer a diverse diet of small, meaty foods for Gobies, such as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. For Blennies, ensure a diet that includes a good amount of algae, such as quality herbivore flakes or pellets and nori sheets.
Feeding Frequency: Feeding once or twice a day is generally sufficient. It is important to ensure they are not outcompeted by more aggressive or faster-feeding tank mates.
Target Feeding: In tanks with a lot of competition, it may be necessary to target-feed Gobies and Blennies with a pipette to ensure they get enough to eat.
Tank Mates
Gobies and Blennies are generally peaceful and will not harass other fish. Their biggest concern is being bullied or outcompeted for food.
Good Tank Mates: Other peaceful, non-aggressive reef fish. Good options include:
- Cardinalfish
- Clownfish
- Damsels (less aggressive species)
- Tangs (as long as they have ample swimming space)
- Peaceful wrasses
- Many types of corals and invertebrates
Avoid:
Large Predatory Fish: Large predatory fish that could view them as food.
Aggressive Bottom Dwellers: Other fish that will aggressively compete for the same bottom-dwelling territory.
Very Fast Eaters: Fish that will consume all the food before these shy eaters have a chance to feed.
Common Health Concerns
Maintaining optimal water quality and a consistent, nutritious feeding schedule is the best defense against disease in Gobies and Blennies. Like all fish, they can be susceptible to common marine ailments:
Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans): A common parasitic infection causing small white spots.
Marine Velvet (Amyloodinium ocellatum): A highly contagious parasitic infection, often appearing as a dusty coating.
Malnutrition/Wasting: Often due to insufficient or infrequent feeding, or being outcompeted, leading to a loss of color and body mass.
Stress: Poor water quality, inappropriate tank mates, or insufficient hiding places can lead to stress, making them susceptible to other diseases.
Prevention is key! Always quarantine new fish for 4-6 weeks, maintain pristine water conditions, and provide a frequent, nutritious diet. If you notice any signs of illness, prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
At SaltwaterReefCo, we understand the unique needs of Gobies and Blennies and offer specialized aquarium maintenance services to ensure their health and vibrant beauty. From comprehensive water testing and advanced filtration solutions to tailored feeding regimens and disease prevention, we're here to support your passion for these spectacular marine jewels.
Ready to bring the captivating personalities of Gobies and Blennies to your reef, or need expert care for your existing group? Contact us today for a consultation in Highland Park, Illinois, and surrounding communities!