Aquaculture applications of the Family Blenniidae

Marine ornamental fish production is still in its infancy compared with its freshwater ornamental counterpart. With ~1,800 wild caught fish species imported into the US each year, there is clear need for the expansion of marine ornamental production to include new species and families of fish. Distinct behavior and a wide range of colors makes blennies a popular choice in the aquarium hobby. These hardy fish are small and rarely aggressive to other reef species making them great for beginning aquarists, or fishes that can be added to an established reef community. The Blenniidae family is particularly common in the reef keeping community not only for their active nature, but also for their substrate cleaning and algae eating abilities.  According to a 2012 report on marine ornamental fish, the family Blenniidae is 11th most imported group into the United States by volume with over 75 distinct species being traded (Rhyne et al. 2012).  Due to this popularity many species of blennies are currently cultured and sold worldwide, with additional research underway to bring new species to market. A summary document highlighting culture protocols for members of the Blenniidae family is lacking and would provide valuable information to potential producers as well as the general public. This publication briefly covers: description and taxonomy, natural history, culture techniques, as well as diseases and marketing ornamental Blennids.