Common name: Ostrich goby

Scientific name: Callogobius maculipinnis (Fowler, 1918)

General information

The Spotted-fin Goby, scientifically known as Callogobius maculipinnis, is a small and fascinating fish species that can add a touch of dynamism to any reef aquarium. They are known for their distinctive spotted fins and the ability to blend into their surroundings, making them an interesting subject for observation.

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
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers live rock with hiding spots
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
Social
Pair Pairs are often monogamous
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perciformes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Goby
    Gobiidae
  6. Genus
    Goby
    Callogobius
  7. Species
    Ostrich goby
    Callogobius maculipinnis (Fowler, 1918)
  8. Synonyms
    Callogobius irrasus (Smith, 1959)
    Drombus irrasus Smith, 1959
    Drombus maculipinnis Fowler, 1918
    Intonsagobius kuderi Herre, 1943
    Intonsagobius vanclevei Herre, 1950

Care

Spotted-fin Gobies are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in a tank with a sandy substrate, which they use for burrowing and hiding. These gobies prefer a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock to provide additional hiding places and hunting grounds for small invertebrates.

Reproduction

Like many gobies, Callogobius maculipinnis exhibits fascinating reproductive behaviors. They are known to form monogamous pairs and often spawn within the safety of their burrows. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Spotted-fin Gobies are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to Samoa, and from the Great Barrier Reef to Micronesia. They inhabit shallow, coral-rich areas and lagoons, often seen at depths of up to 30 meters.