Goldspotted Rockskipper (Istiblennius chrysospilos)

The Goldspotted Rockskipper (Istiblennius chrysospilos) is an unusual and fascinating blenny from the splash zone and high intertidal zone of Indo-Pacific reefs, adorned with vivid golden-orange spots scattered across a mottled brown body that provides excellent camouflage among rock and algae. In its natural habitat it inhabits rocky tidepools and the intertidal zone, and is capable of briefly leaving the water to move between pools using its powerful pectoral fins — hence 'rockskipper'. In the aquarium it adapts fully to submerged conditions and spends its time grazing algae, diatoms, and microorganic films from rockwork surfaces. An interesting, active, and visually distinctive addition to reef aquariums for aquarists who appreciate unusual and behaviorally interesting species.

Provide at least 100 liters with abundant rockwork and algae-covered surfaces for foraging. Supplement diet with dried seaweed/nori sheets, algae wafers, and spirulina-enriched foods as natural rock algae may be insufficient. Provide some emersed rock (accessible above the waterline) if possible to reflect its intertidal nature. Can be semi-aggressive toward similarly shaped blennies; house carefully. A secure lid is advisable.