Common name: Magnus' goby
General information
Sungam's Goby, scientifically known as Amblyeleotris sungami, is a captivating species popular among aquarists for its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimps. This small, peaceful fish is characterized by its elongated body, adorned with a striking pattern of pink bars against a pale background. It is a member of the goby family, which is known for its diversity and adaptability in various marine environments.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers a sandy substrate
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Pairs with pistol shrimp
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusShrimp GobyAmblyeleotris
- SpeciesMagnus' gobyAmblyeleotris sungami (Klausewitz, 1969)
- SynonymsCryptocentrus sungami Klausewitz, 1969
Care
Sungam's Goby requires a well-established aquarium with a sandy substrate to mimic its natural habitat. It is essential to provide plenty of hiding places and a burrow, which it will share with its symbiotic shrimp partner. The aquarium should be equipped with a tight-fitting lid, as gobies are known to jump when startled. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, breeding Sungam's Goby can be a rewarding experience. They are cave spawners, laying their eggs in the safety of the burrow they share with their shrimp partner. The male is responsible for guarding the eggs until they hatch. Successful breeding requires stable water conditions and a stress-free environment.
Symbiosis
One of the most fascinating aspects of Sungam's Goby is its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimps, particularly the genus Alpheus. This mutualistic association is a classic example of interspecies cooperation. The shrimp maintains and digs the burrow, while the goby serves as a lookout for potential threats. Their partnership is a remarkable display of communication and collaboration, with the goby signaling danger through body movements.
Habitat
Amblyeleotris sungami is native to the Western Pacific, where it inhabits sandy bottoms near coral reefs. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 25 meters. In the wild, they are often observed peeking out of their burrows, always vigilant and ready to dart back to safety at the first sign of danger.