Highfin Blenny

The Highfin Blenny is a robust and industrious algae-eating blenny found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Its body is typically a uniform dark brown to black, sometimes with faint mottling or lighter patches along the flanks. The species gets its common name from its notably tall dorsal fin, which can be raised into an impressive sail-like display. The face features the characteristically blunt head profile of algae-grazing blennies, with thick lips adapted for scraping and large, watchful eyes that give it an alert and intelligent appearance.

In the wild, the Highfin Blenny is a dedicated herbivore found in shallow reef environments, lagoons, and tide pools. It spends virtually its entire day grazing on filamentous algae, diatoms, and cyanobacteria growing on dead coral, rubble, and rocky surfaces. Its grazing territory is relatively small but vigorously defended against other herbivorous fish. This tireless feeding habit makes the Highfin Blenny one of the most effective natural algae control agents available for marine aquariums, rivaling the popular Lawnmower Blenny in its ability to keep surfaces clean.

The Highfin Blenny is a hardy and easy-to-keep species that adapts well to aquarium life. It is completely reef-safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates, focusing its grazing exclusively on algae. However, prospective keepers should ensure their aquarium has sufficient algae growth or provide ample supplemental vegetable-based foods, as the Highfin Blenny has a voracious appetite for plant matter. It is peaceful toward dissimilar species but can be territorial with other blennies or herbivorous fish competing for the same food source.