Common name: Spotted prawn-goby

General information

The Spotted Prawn Goby, Amblyeleotris guttata, is a distinctive and attractive fish that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. Known for its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp, this species adds both beauty and interesting behavior to a marine aquarium. The body of the Spotted Prawn Goby is elongated with a pale base color, adorned with orange spots and a series of darker bars, which provides excellent camouflage against the sandy substrate of its natural habitat.

Care

Spotted Prawn Gobies are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in a well-established aquarium. They require a tank with a sandy bottom to allow for burrowing and a tight-fitting lid to prevent escape. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other non-aggressive fish and invertebrates. They thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, breeding Spotted Prawn Gobies can be a challenge. They are not commonly bred in captivity, and little is known about their breeding habits. However, they are thought to form monogamous pairs and spawn within the safety of their burrows.

Symbiosis

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Spotted Prawn Goby is its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp of the genus Alpheus. The shrimp maintains and digs a shared burrow while the goby stands guard against predators. The goby's keen eyesight complements the shrimp's digging prowess, and they communicate through a series of tactile and possibly chemical signals.

Habitat

Amblyeleotris guttata is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to the Philippines, and north to Japan. They inhabit sandy areas near coral reefs, often at depths where light is sufficient to support the photosynthetic needs of the microalgae present in the sand.