Flametail Blenny (Ecsenius flavipes)
Max Size: 4 inches
Diet: Omnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
The Yellowtail Black Blenny, also called the Flametail Blenny, has a striking appearance with its contrasting black and yellow colors. It may be mistaken for the Bicolor Blenny due to their similar appearance, but closer inspection will reveal obvious differences in appearance and behavior.
Compared to the Bicolor Blenny, the Yellowtail Black Blenny has a more elegant appearance with a rounded head and lacks the antennae-like cirri between its eyes. Its caudal fin is also more rounded compared to the Bicolor Blenny's angular fin. The Yellowtail Black Blenny needs a tank of at least 30 gallons with plenty of rockwork to thrive. It spends most of its time among crevices and rocks on the bottom of the tank, occasionally venturing to higher rockwork for perching and foraging.
This blenny has a great personality and is typically peaceful towards other tank members, but it may nip at other blennies, smaller gobies, dartfish, and fish with similar shapes. Its diet should consist of a well-balanced mix of carnivorous and herbivorous foods.