Common name: Peacock goby

General information

The Peacock Goby, also known as the Peacock Shrimp Goby or Pavonine Goby, is a small and colorful species that adds both beauty and intrigue to a saltwater aquarium. Its scientific name is Cryptocentrus pavoninoides. This species is known for its peaceful demeanor and striking appearance, featuring a mix of blue, yellow, and white patterns that resemble the plumage of a peacock.

Care

Peacock Gobies are relatively easy to care for but do require a stable and mature aquarium with plenty of live rock and sand substrate to thrive. They are bottom dwellers and appreciate plenty of hiding spaces. These gobies are not demanding when it comes to diet and will accept a variety of foods including frozen and live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and prepared foods for marine fish.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Cryptocentrus pavoninoides may breed if kept in a pair and provided with the right conditions. They lay their eggs in a burrow or cave, where the male will guard and care for them until they hatch.

Symbiosis

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Peacock Goby is its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp of the genus Alpheus. The shrimp digs and maintains a burrow that both the shrimp and goby use for shelter. The goby, with better eyesight, acts as a lookout for predators, while the shrimp, with its digging prowess, maintains their shared home.

Habitat

Cryptocentrus pavoninoides is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern Indian Ocean to the western Pacific. They inhabit shallow coastal reefs and lagoons, often associating with sandy bottoms and rubble areas where they can easily dig and maintain their burrows.