Common name: Bynoe goby

Scientific name: Amblygobius bynoensis (Richardson, 1844)

General information

Bynoe's Goby, scientifically known as Amblygobius bynoensis, is a small and peaceful fish species that is well-suited for reef aquariums. They are known for their distinctive coloration, typically featuring a series of vertical bands along their body, which can range from brown to yellowish with a white base color. This species is often appreciated for its interesting behavior and compatibility with a wide range of other marine organisms.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
150 liter (40 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
15 cm (6″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Sifts sand for food, needs a deep bed
Diet
Omnivore Enjoys varied diet, benefits from live foods
Social
Pair Pairs are harmonious, avoid large groups
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful Generally peaceful, may be territorial
Captive bred
No
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Goby
    Gobiidae
  6. Genus
    Goby
    Amblygobius
  7. Species
    Bynoe goby
    Amblygobius bynoensis (Richardson, 1844)
  8. Synonyms
    Apocryptes bivittatus Macleay, 1878
    Apocryptes lineatus Alleyne & Macleay, 1877
    Gobius bynoensis Richardson, 1844

Care

Bynoe's Goby is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They require an aquarium with a sandy substrate where they can sift for food and create burrows. Live rock formations are also important to provide hiding places and to encourage natural feeding behaviors. They are not aggressive towards other tank mates, making them a good choice for a community tank. A varied diet of meaty foods and marine pellets or flakes will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Bynoe's Gobies are known to form monogamous pairs and spawn within their burrows. In the aquarium, breeding is possible but not common. If conditions are right, they may lay eggs in a secure location, which the male will guard and aerate until they hatch.

Habitat

Bynoe's Goby is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the western Pacific. They inhabit shallow lagoons and coastal reefs, often seen hovering above the substrate or nestled within coral rubble. They are typically found at depths ranging from just below the surface to about 30 meters.

Their natural habitat includes areas with abundant live rock and sandy bottoms, which provide both food and shelter. In the aquarium, replicating this environment will help the Bynoe's Goby thrive and display natural behaviors.