All fish / Blenniidae

Freshwater Blenny

Salariopsis fluviatilis

Also known as freshwater blenny, river blenny, salaria fluviatilis, blennius fluviatilis, european freshwater blenny, 河鳚

A small, scaleless bottom dweller with a long dorsal fin, a blunt head and mottled olive-brown colouring; breeding males develop a helmet-like crest on the head. It is kept by native-fish and biotope enthusiasts for its lively, characterful behaviour among stones.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

10 cm

Temperature

12 to 24 °C

pH

7 to 8.2

Smallest tank

100 litres

Keep as

Single male or one male with several females

Diet

Carnivore: insect larvae, small crustaceans, bloodworm, brine shrimp and mysis

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

3 to 5 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Mediterranean basin: rivers and lakes of southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East

Breeding

Males guard a cavity under a flat stone where several females lay adhesive eggs, and the male fans them until they hatch. Spawning is achievable in captivity, but the tiny larvae need live first foods and are difficult to rear.

Good to know

Males are territorial towards each other, so provide plenty of rocks and caves. It is protected or listed as threatened in parts of its range, so check local rules before collecting or buying wild fish.