Orange Spotted Shrimp Goby

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Tropical Western Pacific. Commonly found on sandy slopes and detrital bottoms adjacent to coral reefs at depths between 10 and 40 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Gobiid with a moderately stocky body compared to other members of the genus. Reaches about 9 cm. Features closely set eyes on top of the head and pelvic fins adapted for resting on the substrate.

Social Behavior: Peaceful bottom-dweller, territorial toward similar bottom-dwellers but peaceful with midwater fish. Pairs with pistol shrimp that dig and maintain the burrow.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Whitish body covered with a dense pattern of bright orange spots or dots across the back and flanks. Large, dark pelvic fins. No apparent sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Tank of at least 110 liters (30 gallons) with a sand bed 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) deep. Add small pieces of rock and calcium fragments to facilitate burrow digging.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Feed frozen mysis, brine shrimp, finely chopped shrimp, and enriched flake or pellet food. Deliver food near the bottom.

Water Quality: Maintain specific gravity at 1.020-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4, temperature 22-27°C (72-80°F). Requires well-oxygenated water and bi-weekly partial water changes.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Reef-safe. Does not harm corals or healthy invertebrates, except microscopic crustaceans. Avoid aggressive tankmates like dottybacks or large wrasses.

Aquarium Reproduction: Does not breed regularly in captivity. Spawning occurs inside the underground tunnels excavated in symbiosis.

Risks and Diseases: Excellent jumper. Seal all openings in the lid. Risk of bacterial infections if the substrate is dirty or sharp.