Yellowprow Goby

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Tropical Western Atlantic, including the Bahamas, Florida Keys, and most of the Caribbean Sea. Inhabits shallow coral reefs associated with corals and sponges.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Family Gobiidae. Commonly known as the Yellowprow Goby. Elongated cylindrical body, large forward-facing eyes. Maximum length around 4.5 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and social. Perches on rock ledges and sponge branches, actively cleaning skin parasites from fish much larger than itself.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Dark or gray body decorated with a bright neon-yellow longitudinal line crossing the snout and running along the sides. Sexual dimorphism is not marked.

Aquarium Setup: Requires an aquarium of at least 40 liters with live rock and protected crevices. Prefers mature tanks with corals to perch on.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Feeds on ectoparasites in the wild. In aquariums, it readily accepts frozen mysis, fine brine shrimp, copepods, and small veggie pellets.

Water Quality: Constant parameters: temperature 22-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Periodically monitor nitrate levels.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Very peaceful, does not disturb corals or shrimp. Avoid large, aggressive tankmates that could prey on it.

Aquarium Reproduction: Achievable in home aquariums. Spawning occurs in small caves or pipes, where the male guards the eggs until hatching.

Risks and Diseases: Risk of jumping out of the tank if uncovered. Highly sensitive to copper-based medical treatments.