Morishita's Shrimpgoby

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Western Pacific: Ryukyu Islands, southern Japan. Inhabits sandy lagoons, outer reef slopes, and bays at depths between 1 and 25 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Genus Amblyeleotris, family Gobiidae. Cylindrical, elongated body with large eyes positioned high on the head. Grows to 10.0 cm.

Social Behavior: Symbiotic. Shares a sandy burrow with snapping shrimps of the genus Alpheus in a cooperative relationship.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Named in honor of the Japanese aquarist Mr. Morishita who first discovered the species. No strong sexual dimorphism; mature males may display slightly taller or more patterned dorsal fins.

Aquarium Setup: Needs a tank of at least 80.0 liters with a fine sand bed of 5-8 cm depth. Secure rockwork directly to the glass bottom to prevent collapses.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous. Feeds on zooplankton and small benthic organisms. Feed mysis, brine shrimp, and small pellets close to the burrow entrance.

Water Quality: Standard marine conditions: temperature 22.0-26.0 °C, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef-safe. Perfect for peaceful community tanks. Keeping them with a symbiotic Alpheus shrimp is highly recommended.

Aquarium Breeding: Oviparous. Eggs are laid inside the burrow and guarded by the pair; raising the larvae in captivity is extremely rare.

Risks and Diseases: Jump risk when startled. Heavy digging by the symbiotic shrimp can destabilize poorly placed rocks.