Orange Spotted Blenny 

Also known as Orangespotted Blenny, Brownspotted Blenny

The Orange Spotted Blenny is a charming and hardy species displaying distinctive orange to reddish-brown spots over a tan to gray body. This personable blenny is an effective algae grazer and adds both function and personality to reef aquariums with its curious behavior.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Blenniella chrysospilos
• Common Names: Orange Spotted Blenny, Orangespotted Blenny
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 4-6 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful but territorial toward other blennies
• Reef Compatibility: Keep with caution
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; 40+ gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Beginner; hardy and easy to maintain

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide extensive live rock with caves, crevices, and grazing surfaces. This blenny requires multiple hiding spots and open rock faces covered with film algae. Benefits from established tanks with mature microalgae growth.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Adaptable to typical reef conditions
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Standard filtration system
  • Protein skimmer
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain stable conditions for this resilient species.

Diet & Feeding

Orange Spotted Blennies are primarily herbivorous grazers. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: Herbivore pellets, spirulina flakes, algae-based foods
• Plant Matter: Nori seaweed, marine algae sheets, spirulina (important supplement)
• Frozen Foods: Herbivore preparations with marine algae
• Natural Grazing: Film algae, microalgae, diatoms from live rock and aquarium surfaces
• Feeding Frequency: Supplemental feeding once daily; continuous grazing behavior
• Special Note: Must have access to natural algae growth; supplement if insufficient

Notes & Considerations

• Excellent algae grazer that helps control film algae and diatom growth on rocks and glass.
• Hardy and adaptable; suitable for beginner marine aquarists.
• Distinctive spotted pattern makes it visually interesting despite cryptic coloration.
• Very personable and curious; often becomes interactive with its owner.
• Will establish and defend territory from other blennies and similar bottom-dwellers.
• Only one per tank is recommended unless the aquarium is very large.
• Secure aquarium lid is essential; capable jumpers when startled.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates except other blennies.
• Spends time both grazing surfaces and perched on elevated vantage points.
• May occasionally perch on corals but does not damage them.

Why Choose a Quarantined Orange Spotted Blenny?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this attractive and functional species.