Lawnmower Blenny
Specie Description

The Lawnmower Blenny is scientifically classified as Salarias fasciatus, belonging to the family Blenniidae, commonly known as combtooth blennies. This large family contains over 400 species of small bottom-dwelling fish found in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide, characterized by their elongated bodies, lack of swim bladders, and specialized comb-like teeth adapted for scraping algae from surfaces. The genus name Salarias derives from Latin referring to the leaping or jumping behavior characteristic of many blennies. The specific epithet "fasciatus" is Latin meaning "banded" or "striped," referencing the subtle darker bands visible on the body of some individuals, though this patterning varies considerably between specimens.

In the marine aquarium hobby, this species is known by several descriptive common names. Lawnmower Blenny is by far the most widely used name, colorfully describing the fish's methodical algae-grazing behavior as it moves across rock surfaces like a lawnmower cutting grass. This name perfectly captures the species' primary appeal and function in aquariums—tireless algae control. Algae Blenny appears frequently, directly referencing the species' specialized herbivorous diet and value in controlling nuisance algae. Jewelled Blenny or Jeweled Blenny is used less commonly, referring to the small white to blue spots resembling jewels scattered across the mottled brown body. Sailfin Blenny appears occasionally in older literature, referencing the relatively large dorsal fin, though this name risks confusion with other blenny species and is less commonly used today. Rock Blenny is a generic descriptive name occasionally applied but not specific to this species.

Regional variations in common names exist throughout their broad Indo-Pacific range, with various local names in different languages. However, these indigenous names rarely appear in international aquarium contexts where English names dominate. Throughout most of the aquarium trade and hobby literature, Lawnmower Blenny is the standard name requiring no clarification or elaboration, instantly recognized by aquarists worldwide.

Taxonomic clarity surrounding Salarias fasciatus is generally good, though the genus Salarias contains multiple species that can sometimes be confused, particularly when specimens are juveniles or display atypical coloration. The most commonly confused species is Salarias ramosus, another algae-eating blenny from the Indo-Pacific that closely resembles S. fasciatus in appearance and behavior. Distinguishing between these species can be challenging, requiring examination of specific morphological features including cirri patterns above the eyes, exact body markings, and fin ray counts. Fortunately, both species share essentially identical care requirements and algae-eating capabilities, making precise identification less critical for aquarium purposes than for scientific documentation. Most specimens sold as Lawnmower Blennies are indeed S. fasciatus, but some variation exists in trade depending on collection location.

The species was originally described by Bloch and Schneider in 1801, making it one of the earlier-described blenny species in scientific literature. The classification has remained relatively stable, though understanding of relationships within the genus Salarias has improved through modern molecular studies. The genus currently contains approximately 15-20 recognized species, most inhabiting Indo-Pacific coral reefs and displaying similar herbivorous ecology.

The Lawnmower Blenny cannot easily be confused with other marine fish families once the distinctive blenny body shape and behavior are recognized. The elongated body, large eyes positioned high on the head, distinctive cirri above eyes resembling eyebrows or antennae, and characteristic perching behavior on rocks immediately identify fish as blennies. Within blennies, the mottled brown coloration, white to pale spots, and algae-grazing specialization distinguish Lawnmower Blennies from species with different colors or feeding strategies. Similar Salarias species require closer examination but share care requirements.

The Lawnmower Blenny is a small, elongated fish with distinctive appearance and endearing personality that makes them immediately recognizable and appealing. Adults typically reach 4-5 inches in total length in aquariums, with some individuals approaching 5.5 inches under optimal conditions. This moderate small size makes them perfectly suited for tanks from 30 gallons upward. The body is elongated and somewhat compressed laterally, creating a profile distinctly different from the deep-bodied shape of many popular marine fish. The body tapers gradually from the head toward the tail, creating streamlined appearance adapted for life among rocks and crevices.

The most immediately distinctive features are the large prominent eyes positioned high on the head, giving excellent vision for monitoring surroundings while perched on rocks, and the elaborate cirri (fleshy appendages) located above each eye resembling eyebrows or small antennae. These cirri are branched or tufted structures that move expressively as the fish observes its environment, contributing significantly to the species' endearing and comical appearance. The cirri vary in size and complexity between individuals, with some specimens displaying particularly elaborate tufted structures. Their function may include sensory perception and possibly species recognition.

The coloration is complex, mottled, and variable, providing excellent camouflage against rocky backgrounds. The base color is typically brown to tan or olive-brown, overlaid with intricate mottling creating cryptic patterning. Darker brown to black blotches and lighter tan to cream areas create irregular marbled appearance. Small white to pale blue spots scatter across the body, giving the "jewelled" appearance referenced in one common name. These spots may be particularly prominent on the head and anterior body. The exact pattern, intensity, and distribution of colors varies considerably between individuals based on geographic origin, mood, stress level, and background color.

Faint darker bars or bands may be visible running vertically across the body in some individuals, though these are often subtle and may fade in and out depending on the fish's mood and activity. The cryptic coloration allows Lawnmower Blennies to blend remarkably well with live rock and coral rubble, making them surprisingly difficult to spot when motionless despite spending significant time visible on rock surfaces.

The head is relatively large and blunt with the large expressive eyes creating an alert, intelligent appearance. The mouth is positioned low on the head and is specialized with comb-like teeth adapted for scraping algae from hard surfaces. These teeth allow efficient grazing on rock surfaces, removing algae films and filamentous algae that other fish cannot effectively consume. The jaw structure and teeth make Lawnmower Blennies among the most effective algae-control fish available.

Finnage is relatively simple but functional. The dorsal fin is continuous and extends nearly the full length of the back from just behind the head to the caudal peduncle, containing flexible spines that allow the fin to be raised for display or folded flat against the body. The dorsal fin is relatively tall particularly in the anterior portion, creating modest sail-like appearance when erected. The fin displays mottled coloration matching the body with potential darker markings. The anal fin extends along most of the ventral profile, mirroring the dorsal fin placement and displaying similar coloration. The pectoral fins are relatively large and fan-like, positioned low on the body and used constantly for precise maneuvering and maintaining position on rocks. The pelvic fins are small and positioned forward under the throat area. The caudal fin is rounded to slightly truncated, providing propulsion during swimming but less important than pectoral fins for the species' characteristic perching and crawling behavior.

Behaviorally distinctive features include the characteristic perching posture where fish prop themselves on rocks using their pelvic fins and lower body, raising the head upward to observe surroundings. This perching behavior combined with the large eyes and eyebrow-like cirri creates remarkably expressive appearance, making Lawnmower Blennies appear to be constantly watching their environment with curiosity or mild concern. They rotate their eyes independently and move expressively, enhancing their personality and entertainment value.

Color variation exists based on geographic origin, with specimens from different Indo-Pacific locations sometimes displaying subtle differences in base color tone, pattern intensity, or spot prominence. Some individuals appear more grayish-brown while others show warmer tan or olive tones. Stress, mood, and spawning condition also affect coloration temporarily, with stressed fish appearing paler and spawning males potentially displaying enhanced colors.

Sexual dimorphism is subtle in Lawnmower Blennies, making visual sexing difficult without breeding observation. Males may develop slightly longer and more elaborate cirri above the eyes, particularly prominent during breeding season. Males may also grow slightly larger than females and develop more robust body proportions, though these differences are inconsistent and unreliable for sexing. Breeding behavior provides the most reliable sex determination, with males establishing and defending spawning sites while females visit sites for egg deposition.

Salarias fasciatus is native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region with a broad distribution spanning from the Red Sea and East Africa eastward through the Indian Ocean including the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Andaman Sea, through Southeast Asia including Indonesia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and the Western and Central Pacific through Micronesia, Melanesia, northern Australia, and extending to French Polynesia. This extensive range makes them one of the more widespread blenny species, found throughout most of the tropical Indo-Pacific on suitable reef habitats.

The primary natural habitat consists of shallow coral reefs, reef flats, and rocky intertidal zones with extensive hard substrate supporting algae growth. Lawnmower Blennies occur at depths ranging from very shallow water in the intertidal zone (tide pools and splash zones) down to approximately 40 feet, though they are most commonly encountered in depths of 1-15 feet where they are easily observed by snorkelers. They particularly favor protected reef flats, back reef areas, shallow lagoons, and intertidal rock platforms with moderate to strong wave action creating oxygen-rich conditions supporting robust algae growth. Unlike fish requiring deep water or outer reef slopes, Lawnmower Blennies thrive in the most accessible shallow reef environments.

Within these habitats, Lawnmower Blennies occupy specific microhabitats on hard surfaces covered with algae. They are found on coral rock, dead coral skeletons, volcanic rock, limestone formations, and any hard substrate colonized by filamentous algae, turf algae, and algae films. They spend nearly all time on or very near surfaces rather than swimming in open water, using their specialized pectoral fins to cling to rocks in areas with substantial wave surge. The ability to maintain position in high-energy environments allows exploitation of productive shallow zones where algae growth is maximized by strong light and constant water movement delivering nutrients.

Water conditions in natural Lawnmower Blenny habitats reflect typical tropical shallow reef parameters with substantial variation. Temperature ranges from 72-82°F depending on location and season, with shallow water experiencing greater daily and seasonal fluctuation than deeper reefs. Intertidal zones may experience temperature extremes during low tide exposure that deeper-water fish never encounter. Water clarity varies from excellent in exposed reef areas to moderate in protected lagoons with some turbidity. Salinity is typically full marine strength but may fluctuate in intertidal zones during heavy rainfall. pH is alkaline (8.0-8.4), and water is generally well-oxygenated through wave action and algae photosynthesis. The ability to tolerate parameter fluctuations in shallow, variable environments makes Lawnmower Blennies hardy in captivity.

Current and water movement are often significant features of their habitat. Shallow reef flats and intertidal zones frequently experience moderate to strong wave action and surge, with water moving across rocks in sheets during wave wash. Lawnmower Blennies are well-adapted to these dynamic conditions, using strong pectoral fins and their flattened ventral surface to maintain position on rocks. The constant water movement delivers oxygen and nutrients while sweeping away waste, creating productive conditions for algae growth.

Natural behavior centers almost entirely on grazing algae from surfaces. Lawnmower Blennies are diurnal, becoming active at first light and spending virtually all daylight hours grazing methodically across rock surfaces. Feeding involves pressing the mouth against substrate and using specialized comb-like teeth to scrape algae films, diatoms, filamentous algae, turf algae, and associated microorganisms from rocks. They move systematically across surfaces in characteristic patterns, cleaning areas thoroughly before moving to adjacent patches. This continuous intensive grazing makes them important herbivores in shallow reef ecosystems, controlling algae populations and maintaining substrate available for coral settlement. The behavior that makes them valuable in nature—tireless algae removal—translates directly to their aquarium utility.

Perching and observation behavior is equally characteristic. Between grazing bouts, Lawnmower Blennies perch on prominent rocks using their pelvic fins and lower body for support, raising their heads to observe surroundings with their large expressive eyes. They scan constantly for threats, food opportunities, and social interactions. The perching behavior combined with rotating eyes and expressive cirri creates the endearing personality that makes the species appealing beyond its functional algae-control benefits. They dart quickly into crevices when threatened, disappearing instantly into the complex reef structure.

Social structure is relatively simple. Lawnmower Blennies are generally solitary or found in loose aggregations where habitat and food are abundant. Males establish territories centered on suitable spawning sites—caves, crevices, or holes where eggs can be deposited and guarded. Territory defense involves displays including fin raising, jaw gaping, and body undulations attempting to intimidate rivals. Physical combat is uncommon and usually brief. Territories are defended primarily against other male Lawnmower Blennies, with other species generally tolerated or ignored unless they directly compete for the same microhabitat.

Breeding behavior involves males preparing spawning sites by cleaning selected caves or crevices, removing debris and algae. Males then display to passing females through elaborate courtship dances involving fin displays and color changes. Receptive females enter the male's chosen site and deposit eggs adhered to the ceiling or walls of the cave. A single spawning may involve hundreds to thousands of small eggs. The male immediately fertilizes eggs and assumes all parental care, remaining in the cave fanning eggs continuously to provide oxygenation and removing dead or diseased eggs. The male guards eggs aggressively for several days until hatching, after which larvae drift away as plankton and the male resumes normal behavior. No parental care occurs after hatching.

At night, Lawnmower Blennies retreat into crevices or holes where they rest wedged securely. They become inactive until morning when grazing resumes.

The Lawnmower Blenny displays a peaceful temperament that makes them ideal community inhabitants for reef aquariums. These gentle, non-aggressive fish coexist harmoniously with virtually all peaceful and semi-aggressive species while providing valuable algae control and entertaining personality. Their mild nature, lack of predatory behavior, and complete reef-safety make them among the safest fish additions to established community tanks.

Peacefulness toward other species is nearly absolute. Lawnmower Blennies display no aggression, predation, or harassment toward other fish regardless of size or behavior, making them perfect peaceful community fish. They coexist with all peaceful species including small gobies, dartfish, cardinalfish, clownfish, and wrasses without issues. They tolerate and ignore semi-aggressive species including dottybacks, damsels, and even moderately aggressive fish without retaliation. They respect larger fish and are quick enough to avoid serious harassment from aggressive tank mates. Only truly aggressive predators pose threats. This universal peacefulness eliminates concerns about compatibility with other species.

Territorial behavior exists but is mild and directed specifically at other male blennies. Male Lawnmower Blennies establish territories centered on favorite perching rocks or potential spawning caves, defending these areas against other male Lawnmower Blennies or occasionally similar blenny species. Territory defense involves displays including raising the dorsal fin, opening the mouth wide showing teeth, and approaching rivals in undulating swimming motions attempting intimidation. If displays fail, brief chases or mouth wrestling may occur, but serious injury is rare. One male typically establishes dominance quickly and the subordinate retreats, avoiding further conflict. Territory size is modest—typically just the immediate area around favorite perching spots measuring a few feet in diameter. In tanks over 40 gallons with adequate rock work creating visual barriers, multiple Lawnmower Blennies can sometimes coexist, though single-specimen housing eliminates all territorial concerns.

Interactions with other blenny species vary. Lawnmower Blennies typically ignore blennies of different genera with different body shapes or colors (Meiacanthus, Ecsenius, Atrosalarias), viewing them as sufficiently different to not trigger territoriality. However, they may display territorial behavior toward similar Salarias species or blennies with similar appearance and microhabitat use. Housing multiple similar blennies requires adequate space and rock work providing distinct territories.

Toward female Lawnmower Blennies and potential mates, males display no aggression. Females move freely through male territories without harassment except during active courtship when males perform elaborate non-aggressive displays. Multiple females can coexist peacefully without territoriality. The challenge in keeping groups is distinguishing sexes, as visual sexing is unreliable.

Activity level is moderate and intermittent rather than continuous. Lawnmower Blennies alternate between active grazing periods where they move constantly across rock surfaces feeding intensively, and perching periods where they remain stationary observing surroundings. Grazing occupies substantial portions of daylight hours, but they take frequent breaks to rest, observe, or simply perch on prominent rocks. This intermittent activity creates interesting behavior without frantic constant motion. They move in characteristic hopping or crawling motions using their pectoral fins, rarely swimming freely through open water except when moving between grazing areas or retreating from threats.

Curiosity and alertness are defining personality traits. Lawnmower Blennies are highly aware of their surroundings, constantly monitoring activity with their large expressive eyes. They track movement outside the tank, watching people approach with apparent interest. They learn to recognize their keeper and may approach the glass at feeding times or when their keeper is near. The combination of large eyes, rotating eye movement, expressive cirri, and alert perching posture creates remarkably personality-filled fish that appear to observe and react to their environment with intelligence and interest. This personality is a major appeal beyond their algae-control function.

Feeding behavior is entirely peaceful and non-competitive. Lawnmower Blennies graze continuously on algae, spending hours methodically working across surfaces. They show no interest in competing for prepared foods with other fish, occasionally accepting herbivore pellets or nori but never aggressively pursuing meals. Their feeding is self-sufficient in mature tanks with adequate algae, making them low-maintenance inhabitants that don't increase feeding demands.

Stress responses include color paling from mottled brown to pale gray or whitish coloration, hiding continuously refusing to emerge (unusual for these normally bold fish), rapid breathing or darting movements, refusing to graze on algae, and excessive hiding in crevices. Common stressors include aggressive tank mates that chase or harass them, inadequate hiding spots causing chronic anxiety, poor water quality, or most critically, insufficient algae causing starvation. Addressing stressors quickly restores normal behavior as these hardy fish recover well once conditions improve.

Housing Lawnmower Blennies successfully requires providing established systems with abundant live rock supporting algae growth, adequate hiding spots, and appropriate tank maturity. The minimum tank size for a single Lawnmower Blenny is 30 gallons, though 40+ gallons is preferable providing more grazing surface area and algae availability. Multiple specimens require 55+ gallons with extensive rock work creating territories.

Tank maturity is the most critical factor for Lawnmower Blenny success. These fish require established aquariums aged 6-12+ months with mature algae growth covering live rock surfaces. New tanks lacking algae result in slow starvation. Before adding Lawnmower Blennies, tanks should display visible algae films, patches of hair algae, or turf algae providing grazing opportunities. If algae growth is minimal, delay introduction until algae establishes, or commit to extensive supplemental feeding with nori sheets and herbivore pellets offered 2-3 times daily.

Marine water parameters should be maintained properly. Specific gravity 1.023-1.026, with 1.024-1.025 optimal. Use quality marine salt. Mix with RO/DI water. Measure using refractometers. Test weekly. Temperature 72-78°F, with 74-76°F optimal. Maintain stability within 2°F. pH 8.1-8.4, with 8.2-8.3 ideal. Ammonia and nitrite must always read zero. Nitrate below 20 ppm preferable though Lawnmower Blennies tolerate moderate nitrate to 40 ppm.

Filtration requirements are modest. Adequate biological filtration through live rock (1-1.5 pounds per gallon) provides sufficient bacterial capacity. Protein skimmers benefit larger systems. Mechanical filtration removes particulates. Moderate water movement through powerheads creates circulation without excessive current. Aim for turnover of 5-10 times tank volume per hour providing gentle flow. Lawnmower Blennies adapt to various flow levels from gentle to moderate.

Lighting should support algae growth. Moderate to moderately intense lighting encourages natural algae films Lawnmower Blennies require. Standard reef LED lighting works perfectly. Photoperiods of 8-10 hours daily support algae without encouraging excessive nuisance growth.

Aquascaping should provide abundant rock surfaces and hiding spots. Arrange live rock creating caves, crevices, and overhangs where Lawnmower Blennies can retreat and potentially spawn. Maximize surface area rather than creating solid structures, providing extensive grazing opportunities. Leave some open bottom space but ensure extensive vertical and horizontal rock surfaces. Position rocks creating perching spots at various heights. Provide at least 3-5 caves or crevices per Lawnmower Blenny for hiding and security.

Coral and invertebrate compatibility is perfect. Lawnmower Blennies are completely reef-safe, never nipping corals or harassing invertebrates. They can be housed with all coral types, clams, shrimp, crabs, snails, and other reef inhabitants. Their algae grazing benefits reef systems by controlling nuisance algae competing with corals.

Substrate choice affects aesthetics. Live sand (1-2 inches) or crushed coral provides natural appearance. Bare-bottom works functionally. Lawnmower Blennies interact primarily with rocks rather than substrate.

Equipment: heaters (3-5 watts per gallon), thermometers, refractometers, test kits, and secure lids. Lawnmower Blennies rarely jump but lids prevent accidental losses.

Maintaining proper water parameters supports Lawnmower Blenny health though these hardy fish tolerate conditions better than delicate species. Specific gravity 1.023-1.026, with 1.024-1.025 optimal. Use quality marine salt. Mix with RO/DI water. Measure using refractometers. Test weekly. Maintain stability within 0.002 specific gravity. Replace evaporated water with freshwater only.

Temperature 72-78°F, with 74-76°F optimal. These fish tolerate broader ranges than sensitive species but benefit from stability. Maintain within 2°F using reliable heaters.

pH 8.1-8.4, with 8.2-8.3 ideal. pH below 8.0 indicates insufficient alkalinity. Test several times weekly. Maintain through proper alkalinity at 8-12 dKH.

Ammonia and nitrite must always read zero. Both are toxic. Test weekly initially, monthly once stable.

Nitrate below 20 ppm preferable, though Lawnmower Blennies tolerate moderate levels to 40 ppm. Weekly water changes of 15-20% control nitrate.

Calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1250-1350 ppm, alkalinity 8-12 dKH for reef systems.

Dissolved oxygen should remain high. Ensure surface agitation.

Water change protocols: prepare replacement 24 hours ahead, mix salt with RO/DI matching tank salinity, heat to match temperature, test before use. Siphon 15-20%, add replacement slowly.

Regular testing: salinity weekly; temperature daily; pH every 2-3 days; ammonia/nitrite weekly during cycling then monthly; nitrate weekly.

Lawnmower Blennies are extremely hardy and disease-resistant fish that thrive in well-maintained marine aquariums with minimal health issues, making them ideal for aquarists at all experience levels including beginners.

Their exceptional hardiness means basic good care produces healthy long-lived specimens.

Feeding Lawnmower Blennies properly requires understanding their obligate herbivorous nature and ensuring constant access to algae. These specialized grazers require algae-based diets for proper health. Natural algae films on live rock should form 60-80% of diet. Lawnmower Blennies spend hours daily grazing surfaces, consuming filamentous algae, turf algae, diatom films, and microorganisms. Tanks with mature algae growth support Lawnmower Blennies with minimal supplemental feeding. This is their ideal feeding—continuous natural grazing on living algae.

Supplemental foods become necessary in tanks with limited algae. Dried seaweed sheets (nori) designed for marine herbivores provide essential vegetable matter, offered using veggie clips attached to glass. Many Lawnmower Blennies accept nori readily, grazing throughout the day. Offer 1-2 sheets daily in tanks with insufficient natural algae. High-quality herbivore pellets containing spirulina and algae are accepted by most specimens, offered 1-2 times daily. Spirulina flakes work as alternatives. Fresh macroalgae including Chaetomorpha can be offered. Blanched vegetables (broccoli, zucchini) are occasionally accepted as variety.

Lawnmower Blennies rarely accept meaty foods and don't require them. Frozen foods are generally unnecessary and may be ignored.

Feeding technique in algae-rich tanks: Allow natural grazing as primary feeding with nori offered 2-3 times weekly as supplemental insurance. In tanks with limited algae: Offer nori constantly with fresh sheets twice daily, provide herbivore pellets 2-3 times daily, monitor body condition closely for weight loss indicating inadequate food.

Signs of proper nutrition: robust body condition without sunken belly, constant active grazing behavior, healthy waste production, active alert behavior. Thin fish with sunken bellies indicate starvation requiring immediate increased feeding.

Selecting tank mates for Lawnmower Blennies is extremely easy due to their peaceful nature. Highly compatible: all peaceful species including clownfish, cardinalfish, gobies, dartfish, fairy wrasses, flasher wrasses, basslets, chromis, peaceful damsels, anthias, and all reef-safe invertebrates. Semi-aggressive species including dottybacks, moderately aggressive damsels, dwarf angelfish, and hawkfish work well. Larger peaceful fish including tangs and larger wrasses are compatible.

Moderately compatible: other male Lawnmower Blennies in tanks under 55 gallons may experience territorial disputes. Similar blenny species may compete for territory.

Incompatible: aggressive predators including lionfish, frogfish, groupers, or large aggressive triggers that prey on or stress blennies.

Multiple Lawnmower Blennies can coexist in 55+ gallon tanks with extensive rock work, though single specimens eliminate territorial concerns.

Breeding Lawnmower Blennies is difficult but achievable for dedicated aquarists. Pairs spawn in aquariums with males preparing caves and guarding eggs. The challenge is raising larvae.

Sexual maturity occurs at 1-2 years reaching 3-4 inches. Males develop slightly more elaborate cirri. Visual sexing is unreliable without breeding observation.

Pair formation occurs when males establish territories with suitable caves. Provide multiple caves (PVC pipes, shells, rock formations) creating options.

Breeding triggers: excellent water quality, heavy feeding with quality foods, established aquarium, suitable caves.

Spawning behavior: males clean caves preparing sites. Males court females through displays. Females enter caves depositing hundreds of eggs on ceiling/walls. Males fertilize eggs and provide all parental care, fanning continuously for 4-7 days until hatching. Males guard aggressively.

Egg and larval care presents challenges. Eggs hatch into tiny larvae drifting as plankton. Collect larvae using fine nets. Transfer to dedicated rearing tanks. Larvae require greenwater cultures and rotifers. Rearing requires expertise but several hobbyists have succeeded.

Breeding difficulty rated difficult but possible (2) because spawning occurs regularly in aquariums with proper setup and males reliably guard eggs. Raising larvae requires dedication and specialized foods but is achievable for experienced aquarists.