Description:

Cirripectes Chelomatus

The Cirripectes chelomatus, commonly known as the Lady Musgrave blenny, is a fascinating species of combtooth blenny. While not as common in the aquarium trade as some of its relatives, it’s a unique and interesting fish for a dedicated aquarist.

Here is a breakdown of its characteristics and care requirements:

General Characteristics
Common Name: Lady Musgrave blenny. The “Rock Hopper” moniker is a more general term that applies to many blennies in the genus Cirripectes due to their behavior of perching and “hopping” between rocks.

Size: They are a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum total length of about 12 cm (4.7 inches).

Appearance: They have a blunt head and a stout body. Their color is typically dark brown with fine red spots covering the head and body, though these spots may not be very visible in the field. A key identifying feature for the genus is the fringe-like line of cirri (fleshy filaments) on their nape.

Habitat: Native to the western Pacific Ocean, the Lady Musgrave blenny is found in shallow coral reefs, often in the surge zone (areas with strong wave action). Their natural range includes the Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea, and extends east to Fiji and Tonga.

Aquarium Care
Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended to provide ample space and stable water conditions. A larger tank is always better for creating a suitable habitat.

Water Parameters: As a marine fish, it requires stable, high-quality saltwater conditions.

Temperature: 72-78F (22.2-25.6C).

pH: 8.1-8.4.

Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025.

Filtration: Excellent filtration and water flow are crucial.

Aquascaping: The key to a successful habitat for this blenny is providing a lot of live rock with numerous cracks, crevices, and hiding spots. They are known for perching on rocks and will dart into cover when startled. They thrive in an environment that mimics a rocky, reef-like landscape.

Diet: The Lady Musgrave blenny is primarily a herbivore, feeding on marine algae in the wild. In a home aquarium, their diet should consist of high-quality, algae-based foods such as spirulina flakes and pellets. Occasional meaty foods can be offered, but their primary diet should be herbivorous. It’s important to ensure they are getting enough to eat, especially in a tank with other fish that might compete for food.

Temperament: Generally, blennies are known for their personality. The Lady Musgrave blenny is peaceful but can be territorial towards other blennies, especially those of the same genus or with a similar body shape. It is best to keep only one per tank unless you have a very large system or a confirmed mated pair. They are considered “reef-safe” and will not harm corals or other invertebrates.

Tank Mates: Choose peaceful tank mates that won’t harass or outcompete the blenny. Good companions could include small wrasses, gobies (of different body types), and other peaceful species. Avoid aggressive or fast-moving fish that may prevent the blenny from feeding.

Special Considerations: Like many blennies, the Lady Musgrave blenny is a jumper. A secure lid or a jumping guard is a necessity to prevent it from leaping out of the tank, especially when startled.

• Care Level:Easy
• Temperament:Peaceful
• Reef Compatible:Yes
• Diet:Omnivore
• Max. Size:12cm
• Origin:Pacific Ocean