Species Description…

Scientific Name: Salarias fasciatus

Common Name: Lawnmower Blenny

Species Group: Blenny

Habitat: Reef Safe

Care Level: Beginner

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet Type: Herbivore

Role in Aquarium: Cleanup Crew

Max Fish Length: 4 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 10 (gallons)

Native Range: Indo-Pacific

Salarias Fasciatus - The Lawnmower Blenny

Salarias Fasciatus (The Lawnmower Blenny)

Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, rocky coastlines, and shallow lagoon areas.
Recognized for its elongated body, mottled brown coloration, and distinctive fringe-like cirri above its eyes.
Renowned for its algae-grazing abilities, making it a valuable addition to marine aquariums for natural algae control.
Has a peaceful temperament but can display territorial behavior towards similar-shaped fish.
Best suited for aquariums with abundant live rock, stable water conditions, and an established population of algae.

Herbivorous, primarily feeding on filamentous algae, diatoms, and biofilm in the wild.
Thrives on a diet of natural algae growth, supplemented with dried seaweed, spirulina, and algae-based pellets.
Will scrape algae from rock surfaces and tank walls using its specialized teeth.
Should be fed supplemental plant-based foods if natural algae levels in the aquarium are insufficient.
A diet rich in plant matter supports digestive health and sustains energy levels.

Prefers reef-associated environments with moderate water flow and rocky surfaces for grazing.
Frequently observed resting on rocks or perching near coral structures while scanning for food.
Aquarium setups should include live rock to promote algae growth and provide hiding spaces.
Requires stable water parameters and high-quality filtration to prevent water quality deterioration.
Providing a well-established reef system enhances its natural feeding behavior.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support metabolic activity.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires regular water changes and consistent maintenance to ensure a healthy environment.
Reef-safe and does not pose a threat to corals or invertebrates.
Providing ample grazing areas with natural algae growth ensures a balanced diet.

Peaceful towards most tankmates but may become territorial towards other blennies or similarly shaped fish.
Compatible with clownfish, gobies, wrasses, and other reef-safe species.
Best kept in tanks where it does not have to compete aggressively for food sources.
Should not be housed with highly aggressive fish that may intimidate or outcompete it.
Providing multiple perching areas and rockwork reduces territorial behavior.

A relatively active bottom-dweller, often seen hopping between rocks in search of algae.
Frequently observed using its sucker-like mouth to scrape surfaces clean.
More confident in a well-established aquarium with plenty of grazing material.
Providing a natural reef-like setting encourages its typical behaviors.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and actively interact during feeding times.