The Panamic Blenny (Acanthemblemaria hancocki) is also known as Hancock's Blenny and can be found along the coast of El Salvador and Panama. It has a beige body with brown and black spots and red eyes. It thrives along rocky coral reefs searching for small crustaceans to feed on. It should be kept with other peaceful fish and should be fed a primarily carnivorous diet.   

Panamic Barnacle Blenny Care Guide

The Panamic Barnacle Blenny (Acanthemblemaria hancocki) is a unique and captivating addition to saltwater marine aquariums, prized for its distinctive appearance and interesting behavior. This comprehensive product description will delve into various aspects of keeping the Panamic Barnacle Blenny, offering valuable insights for aquarium enthusiasts.

Panamic Barnacle Blenny Habitat:

The Panamic Barnacle Blenny is predominantly found in the warm waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean, particularly along the coasts of Mexico and the Gulf of California. In the wild, they inhabit crevices and holes in rocky and coral reefs. These microhabitats provide them with essential shelter and a steady source of food.

Panamic Barnacle Blenny Reef Compatibility:

The Panamic Barnacle Blenny is generally considered reef-safe, making it a suitable choice for reef aquariums. This species stays close to their chosen hiding spots and rarely behaves aggressively toward corals or other invertebrates.

Panamic Barnacle Blenny Size and Lifespan:

This species is relatively small, with adults typically reaching an average size of 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6 cm). In captivity, they have a lifespan of approximately 2 to 4 years, making them a long-term commitment for marine aquarists.

Panamic Barnacle Blenny Diet in Captivity:

Panamic Barnacle Blennies are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods in captivity. Their diet should include high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods like brine and mysis shrimp, and   occasional live or frozen meaty foods. Ensuring a well-balanced diet will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Aquaculture Availability of the Panamic Barnacle Blenny:

The Panamic Barnacle Blenny is not commonly aquacultured, so most specimens available in the hobby are collected from the wild. However, checking with local fish stores or online retailers for the most current availability is always a good practice.

Compatibility of Panamic Barnacle Blenny with Other Fish and Invertebrates:

Panamic Barnacle Blennies are generally peaceful and can coexist with various tank mates. However, choosing tank mates that are not aggressive or overly territorial is essential. Avoid housing them with larger and more aggressive species to ensure their safety and well-being.

Sexual Dimorphism of Panamic Barnacle Blenny:

Sexual dimorphism in Panamic Barnacle Blennies is minimal, and it can be challenging to differentiate between males and females based on their physical characteristics.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes of Panamic Barnacle Blenny:

Juveniles tend to have a more subdued coloration, with a mottled pattern that aids camouflage among the rocks and corals. As they mature, their coloration becomes more vibrant, often showcasing a striking combination of red, orange, and blue hues.

Temperament of Panamic Barnacle Blenny:

Panamic Barnacle Blennies are known for their curious and somewhat territorial behavior. They are often observed perching on rocky ledges, observing their surroundings, and occasionally interacting with other tank mates.

Tank Requirements for Panamic Barnacle Blenny:

    Minimum Aquarium Size: A suitable tank for Panamic Barnacle Blennies should have at least 20 gallons to provide ample space to explore and establish their territory.     
    Water Conditions:     

      
• pH: Maintain a stable pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.
      
• Salinity: Keep the salinity level within the range of 1.023 to 1.025.
      
• Water Temperature: Maintain a temperature of 74-78°F (23-26°C).
      
• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is ideal, replicating their natural habitat where they can find crevices with varying water movement.
    

Common Names of Panamic Barnacle Blenny:

The Panamic Barnacle Blenny is known by common names such as the Hancock's Blenny and the Red-Lined Blenny.

Compatible Tank Mates (Five Specific Species) for Panamic Barnacle Blenny:

    
• Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica): These peaceful and colorful gobies make excellent companions in reef aquariums.
    
• Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto): With its striking colors and calm demeanor, it pairs well with the Panamic Barnacle Blenny.
    
• Pearly Jawfish (Opistognathus aurifrons): These jawfishes share a similar rocky habitat preference, making them suitable tank mates.
    
• Coral Banded Shrimp (Stenopus hispidus): These invertebrates are generally compatible and help maintain the tank's ecosystem by cleaning.
    
• Yellow Watchman Goby (Cryptocentrus cinctus): Another peaceful goby that can coexist harmoniously with the Panamic Barnacle Blenny.
  

Why Choose Panamic Barnacle Blenny from Saltwaterfish.com:

Saltwaterfish.com is your trusted source for the Panamic Barnacle Blenny due to our commitment to providing healthy and vibrant specimens. We take great care in responsibly sourcing these blennies and ensuring they acclimate to aquarium life. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing valuable information, ensuring a seamless purchase process, and delivering quality livestock to your doorstep. When you choose the Panamic Barnacle Blenny from Saltwaterfish.com, you can be confident that you are making a responsible and informed choice for your marine aquarium.

In conclusion, the Panamic Barnacle Blenny is a fascinating and attractive addition to your saltwater marine aquarium. Its reef-safe nature, modest size, and captivating behavior make it a valuable asset to any marine enthusiast's collection. When cared for properly and provided with suitable tank mates, these blennies will thrive and add a touch of character to your aquatic environment. Consider acquiring your Panamic Barnacle Blenny from Saltwaterfish.com to ensure the best possible experience in the hobby.

Image attribution: D Ross Robertson, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons