Mozambique Fangblenny
Description: Sometimes referred to as harptail blennies, these fish are black with dark green pigments near their heads. These fish also have discrete yellow tail fins resembling a golden harp in shape, perhaps contributing to one of their common names. Before becoming comfortable in an aquarium, the harptail blenny’s normally green-black body is sometimes blue-gray, while its dorsal and anal fins remain black.

Natural Ecology: Meiacanthus mossambicus is a carnivore of zooplankton and other bite-size invertebrates. Like most members of this genus, they have evolved a stinging bite for protection against predators. They have also evolved bright colors as an effective reminder to predators, who distinctly associate this species with a stinging experience.

Indigenous To: The Comoros Islands and Madagascar off the East African Coast.

Behavior: This species ignores other species. Its evolved immunity from predation rendered it unnecessary to hide. It is bravely present in mid-water, hovering near its favorite rock crevice.

Compatability: Usually ignores corals and most invertebrates.

Food: Proaquatix specimens have been weaned to take aquarium pellets and flakes. Freshly frozen invertebrates such as ocean plankton, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped squid will be readily accepted.