Floral Blenny (Petroscirtes mitratus) Care Guide
Petroscirtes mitratus is a small Indo-Pacific sabretooth blenny of shallow lagoons that nests in empty mollusc shells.
Overview
Petroscirtes mitratus Rüppell, 1830 is a sabretooth blenny of the family Blenniidae, commonly called the floral or helmeted blenny. It is the type species of the genus Petroscirtes. According to FishBase it reaches about 8.5 cm in total length and is widespread across the Indo-Pacific.
Taxonomy
- Family: Blenniidae
- Genus: Petroscirtes
- Scientific name: Petroscirtes mitratus Rüppell, 1830
Habitat
FishBase records this species from the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Phoenix, Samoan and Tongan islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to Australia and New Caledonia. It inhabits shallow protected lagoons and reef flats with algal and seagrass clumps at depths of 0 to 8 m. Adults occur singly or in small groups, while juveniles are often found among floating Sargassum weed.
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 a herbivorous diet for this species, indicating it consumes mainly algae and plant material. A diet rich in marine algae and herbivore preparations suits it in aquaria.
Breeding
According to FishBase the species uses empty mollusc shells for nesting, where the eggs are deposited and guarded.
Compatibility
It is a relatively peaceful, bottom-associated blenny. Suitable companions include clownfish, tangs, cardinalfish and wrasses, while large aggressive predators such as lionfish and triggers should be avoided.