Leopard Blenny (Exallias brevis)
Fish in the family Blenniidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Leopard Blenny is a small, elongated blenny with a tan to brown base coloration heavily marked with dark brown or black spots and saddle patterns, giving it its "leopard" appearance. It has a steep forehead, small tentacles above the eyes, and reaches about 5 inches at maturity. The body is typically deeper in profile than many other blennies, with a slightly compressed midsection.
Diet and feeding
Leopard Blennies are detritivores and grazers that pick at rock surfaces, consuming algae, small crustaceans, and organic debris. In captivity, offer a varied diet including quality pellets, flaked foods, frozen foods (mysis shrimp, brine shrimp), and herbivorous items; supplement with algae sheets or spirulina-based foods several times weekly.
Difficulty and care for the Leopard Blenny
Moderately challenging for beginners. Requires stable water conditions, adequate live rock for grazing, and careful observation for signs of stress or aggression. They are prone to hiding and may take time to acclimate, and they can be territorial toward other blennies and small fish.
Common health issues
Parasitic infections (ich, marine velvet), bacterial infections, starvation if inadequate grazing material provided
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii, typically found in shallow coral reef environments at depths of 5–40 meters.
Log Leopard 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 Leopard Blenny alongside everything else in your reef.
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