Common name: Diagonal shrimp-goby
General information
The Diagonal Shrimp Goby, scientifically known as Amblyeleotris diagonalis, is a captivating species admired for its striking diagonal stripes and peaceful demeanor. This small goby is a favorite among aquarists for its interesting behavior and compatibility with other peaceful tank mates.
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 sandy substrate
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Pairs well, can be territorial
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial towards own kind
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusShrimp GobyAmblyeleotris
- SpeciesDiagonal shrimp-gobyAmblyeleotris diagonalis Polunin & Lubbock, 1979
Care
Diagonal Shrimp Gobies are relatively easy to care for, but they do require a tank with a sandy substrate to exhibit their natural burrowing behavior. They are not aggressive and can be kept with a variety of other non-predatory fish and invertebrates. A diet of small, meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, reproduction of Diagonal Shrimp Gobies is rare. However, they are known to form monogamous pairs and may spawn in a well-established tank. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch.
Symbiosis
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Diagonal Shrimp Goby is its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimps of the genus Alpheus. The shrimp maintains the burrow while the goby stands guard, warning the shrimp of approaching danger with subtle body movements.
Habitat
Amblyeleotris diagonalis is found in the Western Pacific, from Indonesia to the Solomon Islands, and typically inhabits sandy areas near coral reefs. They are often observed in depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters where they live in burrows shared with pistol shrimps.