Description
The Kamohara Blenny is mostly black with a combination of white stripes and white speckles. As juveniles, the white pattern is more erratic with random scribbles. As the fish matures, it shifts to a more minimalistic coloration with fewer speckles of white. The amount of stripes and speckles varies from fish to fish. Aside from needing to be frequently fed throughout the day, this is a fairly easy fish to keep. It is hardy and robust. Something to be careful of is the fangs. It is usually not aggressive unless housed with a conspecifics or other fish that look similar to it, but if it feels threatened, it may bite another fish. It is not something to be too concerned about but something to keep in mind if you are considering buying this fish. Although this fish is collected and sold in Japan, wild-caught specimens are not available in the United States. Fortunately, ORA captive breeds these beautiful fish making them more available.
Care Requirements
Purchase Size: 1.25 – 1.5″
Feeding: Omnivore. Feed a variety of herbivore and meaty foods in small portions several times per day. If you can, feed live foods for a healthier, more vibrant fish.
Water Parameters: ~78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef safe: Yes
Color: Black body with a white horizontal stripe and white speckles or scribbles.
More Information
Although the Kamohara Blenny is only available as captive-bred outside of Japan, there are still benefits that this fish has over wild-caught Blennies. They are hardier, more resilient to disease, better able to handle the stress of shipping, and better adapted to aquarium life. Captive-bred fish such as this one also benefit the ocean. The wild-caught trade harms the ocean because of the methods used for collection. By purchasing captive-bred fish you are discouraging the wild-caught trade while supporting the captive-bred industry. This makes our beautiful hobby more sustainable.
