Lawnmower Blenny (Salarias fasciatus)

Max Size: 5 inches
Diet: Herbivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

The Sailfin/Algae Blenny is an eye-catching and charming addition to any marine aquarium, known for its distinctive appearance and friendly disposition. With its oversized eyes and typical body shape of the Blenniidae family, Salarias fasciatus is a mottled tan color and can grow up to 5" in size in the home aquarium. Despite its impressive size, this blenny remains peaceful, active, and a joy to watch.

This blenny is also known as the Jewelled Rockskipper, Lawnmower, or Rock Blenny, and is native to the reefs across the Indo-Pacific. As with other blennies, the Sailfin/Algae Blenny will perch on live rock, hide in caves, hop across the substrate, and graze on microalgae. Therefore, it requires a larger system with a variety of live rock and rockwork.

The Sailfin/Algae Blenny is peaceful towards other fish unless the tank mate is similar in shape or appearance to the blenny. It is best to house the Sailfin/Algae Blenny singly unless kept in a larger aquarium and the two are a mated pair. However, it is known to nip at small-polyped stony coral and clam mantles.

To ensure optimal health, the Sailfin/Algae Blenny should be kept in a well-established aquarium with ample natural algae to feed on. Its diet can be supplemented with vegetable matter, spirulina, and herbivore preparations.