Description

Jeweled Rockskipper Blenny Redfin (Alticus sp.)

The Jeweled Rockskipper Blenny Redfin is a captivating marine fish renowned for its vibrant red fin accents, sparkling body pattern, and highly active personality. Unlike many blennies that spend most of their time perched on rock surfaces, this species is famous for its rock-skipping behaviour, moving energetically across exposed surfaces and exploring the upper reaches of the aquarium. Its jewel-like coloration and dynamic movements make it a standout in reef aquariums.

Native to the shallow reefs and intertidal zones of the Indo-Pacific, Jeweled Rockskippers inhabit areas with abundant rock crevices and tidal pools. In the aquarium, they mimic this behaviour by hopping along rock surfaces and darting between hiding spots, giving aquarists a lively and engaging fish to watch.

This species is hardy, adaptable, and reef safe, making it an excellent choice for marine hobbyists seeking a functional and visually striking blenny.

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Why You’ll Love the Jeweled Rockskipper Blenny Redfin

• Striking red fins and jewel-like body pattern

• Active and highly interactive rock-skipping behaviour

• Hardy and reef safe, suitable for most reef aquariums

• Unique personality, often exploring all levels of the tank

• Efficient algae grazer, helping maintain clean rock surfaces

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Appearance & Behaviour

Adults reach approximately 10–12 cm, with a slender body and bright red fins that contrast beautifully with metallic or patterned scales. Their expressive eyes and continuous movement across rocks make them highly entertaining to observe.

Unlike purely bottom-dwelling blennies, Rockskippers are explorers, often venturing onto open rock surfaces and hopping between crevices. While generally peaceful, they may show mild territorial behaviour over prime rock surfaces, especially in smaller tanks.

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Tank Requirements & Care

Jeweled Rockskippers thrive in established marine aquariums with stable water conditions and plenty of rockwork for exploration.

Tank Size:
Minimum 150–200 litres

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24–27°C

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.023–1.025

Environment:

• Rock structures with multiple crevices for hiding

• Open surfaces for active hopping and exploration

• Moderate water flow

• Secure lid to prevent jumping

A mature tank with live rock and natural algae growth enhances health and coloration.

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Feeding

Primarily herbivorous, they graze on algae and biofilm in the aquarium. Supplement their diet with:

• Algae-based pellets or wafers

• Nori sheets or blanched vegetables

• Occasional small frozen foods

Daily feeding with a mix of algae and supplemental foods ensures vibrant colour and proper nutrition.

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Reef Compatibility

Jeweled Rockskippers are reef safe and generally do not harm corals or invertebrates. Their grazing habits focus on rock surfaces rather than coral tissue.

Compatible with:

• Clownfish

• Gobies

• Wrasses

• Tangs

• Other peaceful marine fish

They may show mild territoriality toward other blennies but are generally non-aggressive.

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Quick Facts

• Common Name: Jeweled Rockskipper Blenny Redfin

• Scientific Name: Alticus sp.

• Adult Size: 10–12 cm

• Temperament: Peaceful to mildly territorial

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

• Diet: Herbivore / Algae grazer

• Reef Safe: Yes

• Water Type: Marine (Saltwater)

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Tankmate Compatibility Guide

Jeweled Rockskippers mix well with a variety of reef-safe blennies and other community marine species, particularly when sufficient rockwork is provided.

Highfin Fangblenny (Meiacanthus sp.) – Usually Compatible

• Mid-water swimmer; minimal territory overlap

Midas Blenny (Ecsenius midas) – Usually Compatible

• Open-water swimmer; peaceful coexistence

Bicolor Blenny (Ecsenius bicolor) – Moderate Compatibility

• May defend rock territories; provide hiding spaces

Flame Tail Blenny (Ecsenius sp.) – Moderate Compatibility

• Ensure multiple rock structures to reduce conflicts

General Tips:

• Provide plenty of live rock and hiding spots

• Introduce multiple species simultaneously if possible

• Observe for early territorial disputes