Starry Algae Blenny / Jewel Algae Blenny (Salarias ramosus)

The Starry Algae Blenny, also known as the Jewel Algae Blenny (Salarias ramosus), is a fascinating marine fish admired for its distinctive speckled markings, quirky personality and natural algae-grazing behaviour. Its mottled brown body is covered in small white or pale blue spots, giving it a starry appearance, while its lighter-coloured fins add an attractive contrast. This characterful fish is a popular choice for marine aquarists looking for something a little different for their reef aquarium.

Native to the Western Central Pacific, including areas around the Philippines and north-western Australia, the Starry Algae Blenny inhabits shallow coastal reefs, rocky areas and coral rubble. In the aquarium, it spends much of its day perched on live rock, exploring its surroundings and grazing on algae-covered surfaces. Its unusual habit of hopping between rocks and resting on ledges makes it an entertaining fish to observe.

The Starry Algae Blenny is particularly valued for feeding on naturally occurring microalgae and filamentous algae. However, it should not be relied upon as a guaranteed solution to nuisance algae. It needs a mature, well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock and a reliable supply of suitable food. Supplement its natural grazing with marine algae sheets, nori, spirulina-based foods and quality herbivore preparations to help maintain good condition.

The Starry Algae Blenny is generally considered reef-safe, although occasional nipping at corals or clam mantles has been reported, particularly when its dietary needs are not being met. A tightly fitting aquarium lid is recommended because blennies can jump when startled.

With its beautiful star-like markings, engaging behaviour and constant grazing activity, the Starry Algae Blenny is an excellent addition to a mature marine aquarium when provided with suitable food, rockwork and space.

Care at a glance

• Scientific name: Salarias ramosus

• Common names: Starry Algae Blenny, Jewel Algae Blenny, Snowflake Blenny

• Adult size: Up to approximately 14 cm

• Origin: Western Central Pacific

• Diet: Primarily herbivorous algae grazer

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, but territorial towards similar fish

• Reef compatibility: Generally reef-safe, with caution

• Aquarium: Mature marine aquarium with established live rock

• Special requirements: Regular algae-based foods and plenty of grazing surfaces

• Experience level: Beginner to intermediate

• Recommended tank size: Around 200 litres or larger