Common name: Whip coral goby

General information

The Wire Coral Goby, Bryaninops yongei, is a small and fascinating fish species that is well-suited for nano and larger reef aquariums. This species is known for its slender body and vibrant coloration, often displaying a translucent body with red to orange markings. They are named after their unique habitat preference, as they are commonly found living on wire corals.

Care

Wire Coral Gobies are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other non-aggressive fish and invertebrates. They require a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions and plenty of live rock for hiding. Due to their small size and specialized feeding habits, they should be provided with a diet of small, meaty foods such as copepods, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

Little is known about the breeding habits of Bryaninops yongei in the wild or in captivity. However, like many gobies, they are likely to form monogamous pairs and spawn within their host coral.

Symbiosis

The Wire Coral Goby exhibits a fascinating symbiotic relationship with wire corals, particularly species from the genus Cirrhipathes. They rely on these corals for shelter and protection from predators, while also feeding on the planktonic organisms that are attracted to the coral.

Habitat

Bryaninops yongei is typically found in tropical marine environments, often associated with steep outer reef slopes or drop-offs. They are distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific.