Deceiver Fangblenny (Petroscirtes fallax)

Fish in the family Blenniidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Deceiver Fangblenny

Quick facts

Scientific namePetroscirtes fallax
FamilyBlenniidae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentAggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size5 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.4 Salinity: 1.02-1.026
Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

Petroscirtes fallax is a small, elongated blenny with a somewhat compressed body and pointed snout. Coloration varies from tan to brown with dark mottling and bands; it has prominent canine teeth adapted for its predatory feeding behavior, earning it the "fangblenny" designation.

Diet and feeding

Feed small live or frozen foods including mysis shrimp, amphipods, and small crustaceans. May accept high-quality frozen carnivore preparations. Offer food 1–2 times daily in portions appropriate to tank size.

Difficulty and care for the Deceiver Fangblenny

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Hole-in-the-Head Disease, Columnaris Disease

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond, primarily in tropical reef environments.

Log Deceiver Fangblenny 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 Deceiver Fangblenny alongside everything else in your reef.