Blackflap Blenny (Cirripectes auritus)
Fish in the family Blenniidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Blackflap Blenny is a small, stout-bodied fish with a brown to tan body coloration and distinctive dark or black elongated filaments above the eyes (cirri). The most identifying feature is the dark flap-like pectoral fin edges that give the species its common name.
Diet and feeding
Feeds on small crustaceans, algae, and organic detritus. In captivity, offer a mix of quality herbivore pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, and spirulina-based foods 2–3 times daily.
Difficulty and care for the Blackflap Blenny
Moderate care. Requires a well-established reef aquarium with adequate rockwork and hiding spaces. Can be territorial and occasionally nip at ornamental invertebrates, so observe behavior carefully in community settings.
Common health issues
Ich (marine white spot), parasitic infections, fin degradation from aggression or poor water quality
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, from the Great Barrier Reef to the western Pacific. Found in tropical coral reef environments across the Indo-Pacific.
Log Blackflap Blenny in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Blackflap Blenny alongside everything else in your reef.
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