Steinitz Goby

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Tropical Indo-Pacific. Inhabits sandy and detrital bottoms within protected lagoons and outer reefs at depths ranging from 1 to 27 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Gobiidae. Reaches a maximum length of about 13 cm. Features a slender, sub-cylindrical body with high, expressive eyes capable of rotating independently.

Social Behavior: Very peaceful and shy. Lives in symbiosis with digging pistol shrimp, sharing the burrow and warning the blind partner of danger by flicking its caudal fin.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Light, almost translucent body marked by 5 wide vertical brown or blackish bands. Small bright blue-white dots scattered across the head and dorsal fins.

Aquarium Setup: Tank of 80 liters (20 gallons) or more with a sandy substrate at least 5-6 cm (2 inches) thick. Use stable rockwork to prevent collapse from the continuous digging of the associated shrimp.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Feed small frozen foods (mysis, brine shrimp, finely minced crustacean meat). Target feed near the burrow entrance.

Water Quality: Constant temperature of 22-27°C (72-80°F), stable pH between 8.1 and 8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025. Good surface movement promotes oxygenation.

Compatibility and Tankmates: 100% reef-safe. Coexists easily with corals and ornamental invertebrates. Do not keep with bottom predators or aggressive fish like large crabs.

Aquarium Reproduction: Reproduction is not documented in the home aquarium due to the extremely complex pelagic larval stage.

Risks and Diseases: Jump risk: easily jumps when startled or during the night. Seal all gaps. Avoid sudden light changes that terrify the fish.