The Pictus Blenny (Ecsenius pictus), also known as the White Lined Blenny, is a small combtooth blenny that uses its specialized teeth to scrape algae and plant matter off of rocky reefs. Their body is a mostly reddish brown with white stripes, turning yellow towards the tail. They are a very passive and shy fish that will hide in rocks when intimidated. They should have an herbivorous diet and may do well in nano tanks.    

Pictus Blenny Care Guide

The Pictus Blenny (Ecsenius pictusi) is a fascinating and unique addition to saltwater marine aquariums. In this comprehensive product description, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to know about keeping this species in your aquarium.

Habitat of the Pictus Blenny

The Pictus Blenny, hailing from the Indo-Pacific region, is commonly found in reef-associated environments. Its natural habitat comprises shallow, rocky areas with plenty of crevices, which it uses for shelter and foraging. These blennies inhabit coral reefs, often taking refuge in small holes and rocky outcrops.

Reef Compatibility of the Pictus Blenny

The Pictus Blenny is generally considered reef-safe, making it a suitable choice for reef aquariums. They are not known to harm corals or other invertebrates, making them a compatible option for mixed-reef setups.

Size and Lifespan of the Pictus Blenny

In captivity, Pictus Blennies typically reach a size of 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) when fully grown. Proper care can extend their lifespan to 2-4 years or even longer.

Diet in Captivity for the Pictus Blenny

These blennies are omnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes a variety of small crustaceans, zooplankton, and algae in their natural habitat. In captivity, they readily accept high-quality pellet or flake foods and live or frozen offerings such as brine and mysis shrimp. A varied diet is essential to ensure their overall health.

Aquacultured Availability of the Pictus Blenny

Pictus Blennies are occasionally available as aquacultured specimens, but their availability can vary. When aquacultured specimens are available, they are a more sustainable choice for your aquarium, as they are not collected from the wild.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates

The Pictus Blenny is generally peaceful and can coexist with other fish and invertebrates in your marine aquarium. They are not aggressive towards tank mates and can be kept with other peaceful fish and invertebrates.

Sexual Dimorphism of the Pictus Blenny

These blennies do not exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism, which means it can be challenging to differentiate males from females based on their physical characteristics.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes

Juvenile Pictus Blennies often display vibrant colors, including a mix of blue, yellow, and white stripes. As they mature, their coloration may become less intense, and they may exhibit a more subdued, cryptic appearance with a mottled pattern. However, the specific coloration may vary between individual blennies.

Temperament of the Pictus Blenny

Pictus Blennies are known for their calm and inquisitive nature. They are not territorial or aggressive, which makes them an excellent choice for community aquariums.

Tank Requirements for the Pictus Blenny

To ensure your Pictus Blenny's well-being, providing a suitable aquarium environment is crucial. Here are the essential requirements:     

      
• Minimum Aquarium Size: A tank with a minimum size of 20 gallons is recommended for a single Pictus Blenny. Larger tanks will provide more swimming space and diverse tank mates.
      
• Water Conditions:         
            
  • pH: Maintain a stable pH level of 8.1 to 8.4.
            
  • Salinity: Keep the salinity between 1.020 and 1.025.
            
  • Water Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 74°F to 78°F (23°C to 26°C).
            
  • Water Flow: Provide moderate water flow to mimic their natural reef environment but avoid strong currents.
          
        
    

Common Names for the Pictus Blenny

Pictus Blennies may also be called the Striped Blenny or Banded Blenny in the aquarium trade.

Five Compatible Tank Mates for the Pictus Blenny

    
• Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.): Pictus Blennies get along well with many species of clownfish, creating a harmonious and colorful partnership.
    
• Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris spp.): These peaceful gobies make great tank mates, and their striking colors add diversity to your aquarium.
    
• Chalk Bass (Serranus tortugarum): Chalk Bass are another non-aggressive species that can coexist peacefully with Pictus Blennies.
    
• Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto): The vibrant colors of the Royal Gramma contrast beautifully with the Pictus Blenny and create a visually appealing display.
    
• Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis): Cleaner shrimp can help maintain the health of your Pictus Blenny by removing parasites and dead skin, promoting a healthier environment.
  

Why Choose Pictus Blenny from Saltwaterfish.com

When considering where to purchase your Pictus Blenny, Saltwaterfish.com offers a reliable and customer-centric experience. Our specimens are sourced from reputable suppliers and come with a quality guarantee. We take pride in providing healthy, aquacultured, and responsibly sourced marine life to enhance your aquarium. With our extensive experience and dedication to the well-being of your aquatic pets, Saltwaterfish.com is your trusted source for acquiring Pictus Blennies and other marine species.

In Conclusion

The Pictus Blenny is an excellent choice for saltwater marine aquarium enthusiasts, offering compatibility with reef environments, peaceful temperament, and unique visual appeal. When properly cared for in an adequately sized aquarium with suitable tank mates and water conditions, Pictus Blennies can thrive and become an addition to your underwater world.