Warthead Blenny

The Warthead Blenny (Protemblemaria bicirris) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its quirky appearance, cryptic patterns, expressive “wart-like” head features, and small size.

Males typically develop more pronounced head cirri (fleshy appendages) and show bolder territorial displays around their chosen burrow, while females/juveniles tend to be smaller, less ornamented, and more subdued in coloration.

They reach about 3 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 10–20 gallons. Provide plenty of live rock with crevices, barnacle shells, or rubble for hiding and burrow-building, a sandbed, and a secure lid, since they are prone to darting or jumping. Stable water parameters are essential: salinity 1.020–1.025, temperature 72–79°F, and pH 8.1–8.4.

Diet should consist of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and quality prepared foods (pellets and frozen blends). While they may graze on microfauna, they rely on frequent feedings of protein-rich foods in captivity.

With proper care, this hardy and characterful blenny makes a standout addition to nano and reef aquariums, often amusing aquarists with its habit of peeking out from its chosen burrow.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.