Disco Blenny

About the Disco Blenny

The Disco Blenny (Meiacanthus smithi), also known as Smith's Fang Blenny, is a mesmerizing addition to any reef aquarium. This peaceful, active fish displays stunning iridescent blue and yellow coloration that shimmers under aquarium lighting—earning its "disco" nickname. Unlike many blennies, the Disco Blenny is a mid-water swimmer, adding movement and color throughout your tank rather than just perching on rocks.

Why Reef Keepers Love This Fish

• Stunning Coloration: Iridescent blue body with vibrant yellow accents that catch the light beautifully
• Peaceful Temperament: Reef-safe and compatible with most community fish and invertebrates
• Active Swimmer: Unlike rock-dwelling blennies, swims actively in open water and mid-tank areas
• Natural Pest Control: Helps control nuisance algae and picks at small pests
• Venomous Defense: Possesses mild venom in its fangs that deters predators (harmless to humans but discourages aggressive tank mates)
• Hardy & Adaptable: Accepts a variety of foods and adapts well to aquarium life

Care Requirements

Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Diet: Omnivore—accepts frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, high-quality pellets, and will graze on algae
Max Size: 4-5 inches

Ideal Water Parameters

Temperature: 72-78°F
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: 1.023-1.025 SG
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: <20 ppm

Tank Placement & Behavior

Disco Blennies are unique among blennies because they prefer swimming in open water rather than perching on rocks. They're peaceful with other fish but may be territorial with other blennies of similar size and shape. Provide plenty of live rock with hiding spots where they can retreat if startled. They're excellent jumpers, so a secure lid or screen top is essential.

What to Expect

Your Disco Blenny will arrive healthy and ready to acclimate. These fish are active during the day and will quickly become a focal point in your aquarium with their shimmering colors and graceful swimming behavior. They're excellent additions to peaceful reef tanks and will coexist happily with corals, invertebrates, and non-aggressive fish.