Leopard Blenny
(Exallias brevis)

Description

Leopard Blenny: A Unique Expert-Only Marine Gem

Admire the strikingly spotted Leopard Blenny, a fascinating marine fish known for its unique appearance and movements. This specialist requires dedicated, expert care to thrive in your advanced reef aquarium.

Overview

The Leopard Blenny (*Exallias brevis*) showcases a distinctive spotted pattern across its cream-white to pink body, often with brownish to reddish spots that darken towards its blunt head. Adorned with a fringe of cirri on its nape and tentacles above its large eyes, this combtooth blenny navigates its habitat with an endearing “walking” motion. Typically found perched motionless on branched stony corals, its natural camouflage allows it to blend seamlessly before quickly retreating into crevices.

Care Level

This is an expert-only species due to its highly specialized diet and specific husbandry needs. The Leopard Blenny is not considered reef safe as it feeds on stony coral polyps, making it unsuitable for typical mixed reef tanks. It can be territorial, particularly around its food sources.

Tank Essentials

A mature marine aquarium of at least 200 litres (approximately 55 gallons) is crucial to sustain this species. Optimal water conditions include a stable pH of 8.1-8.4, temperatures between 23-29°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. Ample live rock with abundant, fast-growing stony corals (e.g., *Acropora*, *Porites*) are essential to provide its primary food source and hiding places for this bottom-dwelling fish.

Diet

The Leopard Blenny is an obligate corallivore, feeding almost exclusively on the polyps of live stony corals. While some may attempt to offer frozen preparations for herbivores, mysid shrimp, or enriched brine shrimp, these are rarely sustainable long-term.

Why Buy From Us

When you buy Leopard Blenny online from Corais de Vidro, you receive healthy aquarium fish responsibly sourced and meticulously acclimated. We prioritize the well-being of every specimen, ensuring they arrive in optimal condition ready for your expert care. Trust us for premium, ethically provided marine life.

• Scientific Name: *Exallias brevis*
• Common Name / Variant: Leopard Blenny
• Maximum Size: 14.5 cm
• Origin: Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea, Hawaii, and Australia
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Temperature: 23–29°C
• Lifespan: [data unavailable]
• Swimming Zone: Bottom

Carefully consider requirements before you buy this expert-only species!