ORA Harptail Blenny Captive-Bred for Sale
The ORA Harptail Blenny (Meiacanthus mossambicus) is a vibrant, peaceful, and captive-bred fish ideal for reef or marine aquariums of 30 gallons or larger. Its golden-white body, bright yellow tail, and jet-black fins add striking contrast and natural elegance to any saltwater display. Bred exclusively by ORA, this species is hardy, disease-resistant, and fully adapted to aquarium conditions, making it a reliable choice for both beginner and advanced hobbyists.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Meiacanthus mossambicus |
| Family | Blenniidae |
| Origin | Western Indian Ocean to Africa |
| Max Size | 4–5 inches |
| Purchase Size | 1–2inches |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 years |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Diet | Omnivore – herbivorous and meaty foods |
| Temperature | 75–78°F |
| pH Range | 7.8–8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.026 |
Appearance
The ORA Harptail Blenny features a golden-white body accented by a subtle green sheen near the head and deep black dorsal and anal fins. Its distinct yellow tail splits into two long, ribbon-like streamers that form the characteristic “harptail” shape. This coloration remains vivid under reef lighting, adding active visual appeal and movement to marine aquariums.
Care & Requirements
A minimum 30-gallon aquarium with ample live rock is essential for this species. Provide caves and crevices for hiding and grazing. Maintain stable conditions: 75–78°F temperature, 7.8–8.4 pH, and 1.020–1.026 salinity. A tight-fitting lid prevents jumping. Feed a balanced omnivorous diet of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, spirulina-based pellets, and frozen marine preparations 2–3 times daily. ORA’s captive-bred lineage ensures strong disease resistance and adaptability, reducing acclimation stress.
- Can two Harptail Blennies live together?
Only in larger aquariums with multiple hiding spots; single housing is best for smaller tanks. - Do Harptail Blennies eat algae?
They lightly graze on algae but require mixed meaty foods for full nutrition. - Are they jumpers?
Yes. Always use a fitted lid.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
This species is peaceful and safe with most reef inhabitants, including clownfish, firefish, gobies, and cardinalfish. They ignore corals and invertebrates. Avoid pairing with predatory species like groupers or large wrasses. Their venomous fangs are defensive only, not aggressive, ensuring safe community behavior.
- Are Harptail Blennies reef-safe with coral?
Yes, they will not nip or harm coral structures. - Can they live with shrimp and snails?
Completely safe and compatible. - Can Harptail Blennies bite?
They rarely do, and their mild venom is harmless to humans.
Aquaculture/Availability
ORA consistently breeds Harptail Blennies under controlled aquaculture systems. This ensures hardy, disease-free, and environmentally sustainable specimens available year-round. Captive breeding reduces wild collection impact and produces fish already adapted to aquarium diets and stable water parameters.
- Do captive-bred fish live longer?
Generally yes, due to better acclimation and fewer stressors. - Are ORA Harptail Blennies beginner-friendly?
Absolutely, their hardiness and calm behavior make them ideal for new aquarists. - Do they carry diseases?
Captive-bred stock from ORA is free of parasites and resilient to common marine illnesses.
Why Buy From Oceansgarden.com
- Captive-Bred & Sustainable: Many of our fish and invertebrates are captive-bred or sustainably sourced to promote healthy reef ecosystems.
- Expert Care Before Shipping: Every animal is maintained under professional aquarium standards for health, diet, and water quality.
- Live Arrival Guarantee: We stand behind each shipment with a Live Arrival Guarantee for your peace of mind.
- Fast, Reliable Shipping: Orders are packed with proven methods and shipped overnight to ensure safe arrival.
- Transparent Policies: Clear shipping, refund, and guarantee information available on every order page.
- Trusted by Hobbyists: Backed by years of experience and thousands of satisfied marine aquarium keepers across the U.S.
FAQ
What tank size do Harptail Blennies need? 30 gallons minimum, larger if housing more than one or with active tank mates.
Are they suitable for reef aquariums? Yes, fully reef-safe and compatible with corals and invertebrates.
What is their diet? A mix of meaty and herbivorous foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and marine pellets 2–3 times daily.
Do they get aggressive? Generally peaceful but may defend small territories if crowded.
How long do they live? Typically 5 years with stable water quality and proper diet.
Do they help control algae? They graze lightly on film algae but are not primary algae cleaners.
Can they live in nano tanks? No, they need at least 30 gallons to thrive.
Do they adapt well to aquariums? Yes. ORA’s captive breeding ensures quick adaptation and stress-free feeding.
Are they venomous? Yes, but the venom is only used for self-defense and is not dangerous to humans.
Do males show breeding colors? Males can intensify their coloration during mating displays.
| size | 2 inches |
|---|
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