Yellowline Goby

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Western Central Atlantic, common around the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Curaçao. Inhabits protected coral reefs, often associated with large sponges.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Family Gobiidae. Scientifically Elacatinus horsti. Features an elongated cylindrical body with a pelvic sucker. Maximum length about 5 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful, limited swimmer, active cleaner. Spends the day perched on rocks or sponge walls waiting for client fish to clean.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Black body with a distinct yellow or whitish stripe running along the back to the caudal fin. Sexual dimorphism is visually indistinguishable.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a nano reef of at least 40 liters. Live rock with small crevices and shelter for resting is highly recommended.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Feeds on zooplankton and ectoparasites. Supplement with small frozen foods (brine shrimp and cyclops) and dry micro-pellets.

Water Quality: Stable parameters: temperature 22-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Requires efficient filtration.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Very peaceful, perfect for housing with invertebrates and non-aggressive fish. Do not house with fast predators.

Aquarium Reproduction: Achievable. Spawns in small crevices or empty snail shells, carefully guarded by the male.

Risks and Diseases: Notorious jumper; cover the tank carefully. Risk of starvation if the tank is immature or if competition is too high.