Chestnut Eyelash-Blenny (Cirripectes castaneus) Care Guide
Cirripectes castaneus is an Indo-West Pacific algae-grazing blenny of wave-swept reef flats, bearing fringes of cirri on the head.
Overview
Cirripectes castaneus (Valenciennes, 1836) is a combtooth blenny of the family Blenniidae, commonly called the chestnut eyelash-blenny. It was originally described as Salarias castaneus. According to FishBase it grows to about 9 cm and occurs across the Indo-West Pacific; it is an algae grazer of wave-swept reef flats.
Taxonomy
- Family: Blenniidae
- Genus: Cirripectes
- Scientific name: Cirripectes castaneus (Valenciennes, 1836)
- Original combination: Salarias castaneus
Habitat
FishBase records this species from the Indo-West Pacific, from the Red Sea to Tonga, north to southern Japan and south to Lord Howe Island. It inhabits wave-swept algal ridges on outer reef flats, preferring rocky and coralline substrates at depths of about 0 to 32 m, typically in the upper 10 m. It occurs in small loose groups and is capable of facultative air-breathing.
Description
According to FishBase, males bear numerous cirri on the head, including nuchal, nasal and supraorbital cirri arranged in groups, with the ventral group on an expanded nuchal flap. These fringes give the genus its 'eyelash-blenny' common name.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L (about 26 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness range (record): 8-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 3-8 years (KB record)
Diet
FishBase reports that the species feeds on algae. In aquaria a diet based on marine algae and herbivore preparations supports this grazing behaviour.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, bottom-associated grazer. Suitable companions include clownfish, tangs, cardinalfish and wrasses, while large aggressive predators such as lionfish and triggers should be avoided.