The lawnmower blenny is a fish full of character and has become popular for its effectiveness in algae control. It is a very active fish grazing all day on both the rocks and the glass panes of aquariums and leaves its trademark lipstick marks on the glass panels as it comically bangs its head on the glass surface to graze on diatoms and other algae. A well established specimen is very tame and eager to take feedings from your hand.
This blenny is classified as a combtooth blenny meaning that it has raspy teeth that are effective in removing algae. Primarily it will graze on diatoms, other film algae and some hair algae. It is not known to feed on hair algae that is overgrown and is also not likely to be effective in keeping slime algae under control.
Grazes on diatoms, other micro algae and filamentous algae. Initially not accustomed to prepared foods and may not adjust at all and may eventually starve to death if there is not enough to graze on. It is very important to try and entice it to feed on your prepared offerings using a variety of feeding methods including nori on a vegetable clip. Once accustomed to prepared foods, the lawnmower blenny can be quite a hearty eater of any offering you give it.
Very hardy once established in a captive environment. Long term health may depend on acclimation to artificial feedings.
Low risk and recommended primarily as an effective algae grazer. Beware of similar blennies being sold as the Lawnmower Blenny that may nip at clams and other invertebrates.
Very docile but can be very aggressive with it's own kind and other blenny species.
2" to 4"
Geographic Distribution:
(reference: fishbase.org)
Biology:
(reference: fishbase.org)
Inhabits reef flats as well as shallow lagoon and seaward reefs. Usually found in areas of mixed coral, sand, and rubble. Feeds by scraping off algae.
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