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Scartella cristata - Molly Miller
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Coloration: Blue, Black, White
Diet: Omnivore
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: sg 1.020-1.025, 22-25°C, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4
Max. Size: Up to 10 cm
Family: Blenniidae
Minimum Tank Size: 100 liters
Description
The Molly Miller (Scartella cristata) is a small blenny commonly found in seas worldwide. These blennies are often underrated, overshadowed by more popular species like Salarias, but they are excellent additions to a reef aquarium. They exhibit remarkable disease resistance and can adapt well to minor fluctuations in water quality. While their distant appearance may seem green-brown, closer observation reveals an intriguing pattern. What sets these fish apart is their appetite for many unwanted elements in our aquariums, including detritus, various algae types, and they've even been observed eating aiptasia!
In their natural habitat, Molly Millers inhabit algae-covered rocks, and when threatened, they swiftly retreat into small holes or Strombus shells until the danger subsides. It's essential to supplement their diet with algae-containing flakes and pellets, particularly if your tank lacks ample algae. However, exercise caution when keeping them with other blennies.
These tank-bred fish readily consume dry food and adapt more easily to your aquarium compared to wild-caught specimens, making them an excellent choice for aquarists.
Illustrative photo.