Flaming Blenny

The Flaming Blenny is a robust combtooth blenny named for its warm red-brown to chestnut coloration that can appear to glow like embers under reef aquarium lighting. This species is a member of the Cirripectes genus, sharing the characteristic fringed cirri above the eyes and the active algae-grazing lifestyle common to the group. Its rich, warm tones make it one of the more colorful algae-grazing blennies available.

In the wild, the Flaming Blenny is found across a wide range of the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific, inhabiting shallow coral reefs and rocky areas where it grazes continuously on filamentous microalgae. It is an energetic species that spends its day hopping between rocks, scraping algae with its comb-like teeth, and retreating to favorite crevices when threatened.

The Flaming Blenny is an excellent aquarium fish that combines attractive coloration with practical algae control. It is hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, making it suitable for beginner aquarists. Its active grazing behavior keeps rockwork clean and contributes to overall tank maintenance. Like other Cirripectes species, it should be kept singly unless the aquarium is large enough to support separate territories, as it may be aggressive toward similar-looking blennies.