Common name: Tailspot flaphead goby

General information

The Okinawa Goby, scientifically known as Callogobius okinawae, is a small and fascinating fish species that is a delight to observe in a reef aquarium. This species is part of the Gobiidae family, which is known for its diverse and often brightly colored members. The Okinawa Goby has a subtle beauty, with a tan to brown body and sometimes exhibiting faint bands or mottling that can provide excellent camouflage against the sandy or rocky substrate.

Care

Okinawa Gobies are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in tanks with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate that allows them to exhibit their natural burrowing behavior. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other non-aggressive fish and invertebrates. They are carnivorous, feeding on small crustaceans and worms in the wild, so a diet of meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Callogobius okinawae has not been widely reported to breed. However, like many gobies, they are likely to form monogamous pairs and spawn within the safety of their burrows or crevices. The care of the eggs would typically be the responsibility of the male, who guards and aerates them until they hatch.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Okinawa Goby includes shallow, coastal waters with sandy or rubble substrates, often near coral reefs. They are adept at burrowing and will often retreat to their burrows when threatened. Their geographical distribution is centered around the Ryukyu Islands, including Okinawa, where they can be found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to about 25 meters.

Okinawa Gobies are not only interesting from a behavioral standpoint but also serve as a functional part of the clean-up crew in a reef aquarium, sifting through the substrate and helping to keep the sand bed clean and aerated.