Description

The Lawnmower Blenny (Salarias fasciatus) is a quirky, algae-eating saltwater fish known for its comical appearance, constant perching, and usefulness in controlling algae in reef tanks. It’s peaceful, hardy, and a great choice for both beginner and experienced marine aquarists.

🐟 Lawnmower Blenny Description:

• Scientific Name: Salarias fasciatus

• Common Names: Lawnmower Blenny, Jeweled Blenny, Sailfin Blenny

• Origin: Indo-Pacific reefs and lagoons

• Size: Up to 5 inches (13 cm)

• Coloration: Mottled tan, brown, and white body with irregular vertical bands; large expressive eyes and fringed “eyebrows”

• Temperament: Peaceful, with a lot of personality

• Lifespan: ~4–6 years with good care

🧪 Tank Requirements:

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

• Water Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

• pH Level: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025

• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH

• Aquascape: Live rock is essential for grazing and perching

🥬 Diet:

• Primarily Herbivorous:

  • Feeds on microalgae, film algae, and diatoms

  • Supplement with nori, spirulina-based flakes or pellets if algae is scarce

• May nibble at certain soft corals or fleshy LPS if underfed

Feed once or twice daily if natural algae is insufficient.

🤝 Compatibility:

• Reef Safe: Yes – with caution (may nip at coral if hungry)

• Tankmates:

  • Peaceful community fish

  • Avoid housing with other blennies or similar-shaped fish (can be territorial)

  • Does well with clownfish, gobies, wrasses, etc.

💡 Care Tips:

• Needs a mature tank with established algae to graze on

• Will perch on rocks, glass, and even corals – amusing to watch!

• Might not accept prepared food at first; watch to ensure it’s eating

• Not a jumper, but a lid is still a good idea

• Hardy and disease-resistant once acclimated

📝 Summary: