Leopard Blenny

The Exallias brevis, commonly known as the , is a striking and unusual reef fish known for its bold patterning and inquisitive personality. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this species is easily recognized by its elongated body covered in a maze-like pattern of dark brown spots on a pale cream to olive background—mimicking the appearance of a leopard, hence its name. Reaching up to 14–15 cm in length, the a unique and eye-catching addition to large, mature reef aquariums with the right conditions.

While the a fascinating fish, it is not reef-safe. It is strictly herbivorous and naturally grazes on coral polyps and filamentous algae in the wild. In captivity, it often develops a taste for live coral tissue—especially SPS—making it unsuitable for tanks containing corals. For this reason, it is best housed in fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) setups or dedicated non-reef displays. A tank size of at least 200 litres is recommended, with abundant rockwork and algae growth to support its natural grazing behavior.

Feeding Exallias brevis can be challenging, particularly if insufficient algae is present in the system. Offer a varied herbivorous diet including nori (dried seaweed), spirulina-based flakes or pellets, and algae-enriched frozen foods. Grazing opportunities on live rock and tank surfaces are also essential. The thrives in stable water conditions with temperatures between 24–27°C, salinity at 1.023–1.025, and a pH of 8.1–8.4. Though its care level is considered moderate to advanced due to dietary needs and coral compatibility, this species rewards attentive aquarists with fascinating behavior and a truly exotic appearance.