Midas Blenny
Midas Blenny
Species: Ecsenius midas
Growth Form: N/A (Fish)
Coloration: Vibrant golden-yellow to orange body with blue eyes; coloration may vary slightly depending on mood and environment
Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons
Placement: Rockwork / Mid-water swimmer
Lighting: No specific requirement
Flow: Moderate
Diet: Omnivore
Feeding: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, marine pellets, flakes, and finely chopped seafood (1–2x daily)
Reef Safe: Yes
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Midas Blenny (Ecsenius midas)
Common Names
- Midas Blenny
- Golden Midas Blenny
- Lyretail Blenny
Identification
Scientific Name: Ecsenius midas
Adult Size: Up to 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
The Midas Blenny is a striking and highly sought-after reef fish known for its vibrant golden-yellow coloration and graceful, eel-like swimming behavior. Unlike many blennies that perch on rocks, the Midas Blenny spends much of its time swimming openly in the water column, adding constant movement and personality to the aquarium.
Behavior & Role in a Reef Tank
Midas Blennies are peaceful and active fish that quickly become a favorite among reef hobbyists. They are curious by nature and often establish a favorite cave or crevice to retreat to when startled. Their bright coloration and unique swimming style make them an excellent centerpiece fish for smaller and medium-sized reef aquariums.
Compatibility & Caution
Generally peaceful and reef safe, the Midas Blenny gets along well with most community fish including clownfish, gobies, wrasses, cardinalfish, and tangs. They may become territorial toward other blennies or similarly shaped fish if housed in smaller aquariums.
Because they are excellent jumpers, a secure lid or mesh screen is highly recommended.
Care Level
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Recommended Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
- Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm
Diet:
Midas Blennies are omnivores and readily accept a variety of foods including:
- Mysis shrimp
- Brine shrimp
- Finely chopped seafood
- High-quality marine pellets and flakes
- Occasional vegetable-based foods
Feed 1–2 times daily with a varied diet to maintain vibrant coloration and overall health.
Tank Mates
Suitable tank mates include:
- Clownfish
- Gobies
- Firefish
- Fairy and Flasher Wrasses
- Cardinalfish
- Dwarf Angelfish
- Tangs
- Peaceful reef-safe species
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Fun Fact
Despite being called a blenny, the Midas Blenny's swimming style closely resembles that of anthias, and in the wild they are often found living among schools of anthias for protection. Their engaging personality and bright coloration have made them one of the most popular blennies in the reef aquarium hobby.