Floral Blenny (Petroscirtes mitratus)

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

Floral Blenny

Quick facts

Scientific namePetroscirtes mitratus
FamilyBlenniidae
Also known asCrested Sabretooth Blenny
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentAggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

The Floral Blenny has a mottled tan, brown, and orange body with distinctive crescent-shaped markings and a floral or lacy pattern. It possesses a slightly elongated body typical of blennies, with high dorsal fins and a somewhat cryptic coloration that aids camouflage among coral and rock crevices.

Diet and feeding

The Floral Blenny is an omnivore that grazes primarily on algae, diatoms, and biofilms in the reef. In captivity, provide quality herbivore flakes, nori sheets, and small portions of meaty foods like frozen mysis shrimp 2–3 times weekly to maintain nutritional balance.

Difficulty and care for the Floral Blenny

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 region from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

Log Floral 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 Floral Blenny alongside everything else in your reef.