Red Scooter Blenny Fish

The Red Scooter Blenny, *Synchiropus stellatus*, is a captivating and unique addition to the home aquarium. Despite its common name, it is not a true blenny but rather a dragonet, closely related to the Mandarinfish. Its striking appearance features a mottled pattern of red, brown, and white, allowing it to blend seamlessly with live rock and sand substrates. Males are typically larger and possess a more elaborate dorsal fin than females.

A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Red Scooter Blenny, with larger tanks preferred for multiple individuals or a pair. A mature aquarium with a substantial amount of live rock and a deep sand bed is crucial, as these fish are benthic foragers, spending their time sifting through the substrate and grazing on microcrustaceans and other small invertebrates. A refugium can be beneficial to cultivate a continuous supply of live food. While generally peaceful, they can be territorial towards conspecifics, especially in smaller tanks. They are considered reef safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates.

The Red Scooter Blenny is a specialized feeder and can be challenging to acclimate to prepared foods. Their primary diet in the aquarium should consist of live copepods and amphipods. While some individuals may eventually accept frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, or other small meaty foods, a consistent supply of live food is essential for their long-term health and survival. They are slow, deliberate eaters and can be outcompeted for food by more active tank mates. Breeding in captivity is rare but has been achieved in dedicated systems with a bonded pair and a continuous supply of live planktonic food for the larvae.