Hector's Goby

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Tropical Indian Ocean and Western Pacific. Inhabits sheltered reef zones and lagoons rich in fine sand and organic sediment down to 20 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Gobiidae. Reaches 8.5 cm. Slender, cylindrical body with a rounded tail and large pectoral fins used to hover above the sand.

Social Behavior: Peaceful, shy, and solitary fish. Swims just above the sandy bottom, sifting sand through its gills in search of food.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Dark body striped longitudinally with a series of prominent bright yellow-orange lines. Displays a distinct yellow-ringed black ocellus (eyespot) on the dorsal fin.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 80 liters (20 gallons) rich in mature live rock and fine sand to allow natural sifting behavior without injury.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivore with a strong herbivorous tendency. Feeds on filamentous algae, detritus, and benthic microfauna. Supplement with algae pellets and fine frozen food.

Water Quality: Temperature 22-28°C (72-82°F), pH 8.0-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025. Requires mature and stable tanks; suffers greatly in newly started systems.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef-safe. Ideal for coral-rich tanks. Does not harm any invertebrates. Avoid fast or aggressive tankmates that intimidate it.

Aquarium Breeding: Reproduction is not recorded in home captivity due to the feeding difficulties of pelagic larvae during the first weeks.

Risks and Diseases: Excellent jumper, covering the aquarium is essential. Can waste away quickly if it does not find enough natural algae and microfauna in the substrate.