Scooter Blenny, Size 1.25 – 2.25 inches

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Scooter Blenny (Synchiropus ocellatus)

The Scooter Blenny, also known as Synchiropus ocellatus, is a popular choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand and care for this beautiful species:

Habitat:

The Scooter Blenny is native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically the Maldives, Fiji, and Indonesia reefs. It prefers shallow lagoons and areas with plenty of live rock and coral rubble for hiding and grazing.

Reef Safe:

The Scooter Blenny is reef-safe as it does not typically bother corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with smaller shrimp or other small crustaceans, as they may see them as food.

Size:

The Scooter Blenny grows to a maximum size of around 3 inches, making it suitable for smaller aquariums.

Temperament:

This species is known for its peaceful nature and can be kept with various other peaceful fish species. It is generally not aggressive towards tankmates.

Sexual Dimorphism:

Male Scooter Blennies have a more vibrant coloration than females. Males also have a larger first dorsal fin, which they use to display during courtship.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of a Scooter Blenny is around 2-4 years, although, with proper care, some individuals have been known to live up to 6 years.

Diet in Aquariums:

The Scooter Blenny is a carnivorous species that primarily feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. In aquariums, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods. Providing multiple feedings per day is important to ensure it receives enough nutrition.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

When setting up the aquarium for a Scooter Blenny, providing plenty of live rock with crevices and hiding spots is important. This will mimic its natural habitat and provide areas for the blenny to explore and graze on microorganisms.

Captive Bred Availability:

The Scooter Blenny is occasionally available as captive-bred specimens. These individuals are bred in controlled environments, which can help reduce stress and improve overall health. Captive-bred specimens are often hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions compared to wild-caught ones.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The Scooter Blenny is generally compatible with many peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. Here are five specific tankmates that are good choices:

1. Clownfish: Clownfish are peaceful and can coexist well with the Scooter Blenny. They also add vibrant colors to the aquarium.
2. Gobies: Gobies share a similar peaceful temperament and can create an interesting dynamic in the tank.
3. Firefish: Firefish are known for their beautiful colors and peaceful nature, making them suitable companions for the Scooter Blenny.
4. Cleaner Shrimp: Cleaner shrimp can help keep the blenny free from parasites and are generally compatible tankmates.
5. Zoanthids: These colorful and hardy corals can be a great addition to the aquarium, and the Scooter Blenny won’t bother them.

Other Common Names:

The Scooter Blenny is also commonly known as the Ocellated Dragonet or the Ocellated Scooter Dragonet.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

1. Q: Can Scooter Blennies jump out of the tank?
   A: Scooter Blennies have been known to jump out of uncovered tanks, so it is recommended to have a tight-fitting lid or mesh screen to prevent escapes.
2. Q: Do Scooter Blennies require a sand substrate?
   A: While not mandatory, a sand substrate can provide a natural environment for the blenny to sift through and find small food particles.
3. Q: Can Scooter Blennies be kept in pairs?
   A: Keeping multiple Scooter Blennies together is generally not recommended, as they may become territorial and aggressive towards each other.
4. Q: Are Scooter Blennies suitable for beginner hobbyists?
   A: Scooter Blennies are a good choice for beginners due to their ease of care and peaceful nature.
5. Q: Can Scooter Blennies change their gender?
   A: Scooter Blennies can change their gender from female to male if the dominant male in the group dies or is removed.