Common name: Saffron shrimp-goby

General information

The Twospot Goby, Ctenogobiops maculosus, is a small and fascinating fish species known for its unique behavior and appearance. It is often referred to as the Signal Goby or Crabeye Goby due to the distinctive markings on its dorsal fin, which resemble two spots or eyes. This species is a member of the Gobiidae family, which is one of the largest families of marine fishes.

Care

Twospot Gobies are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They require a tank with a sandy substrate to mimic their natural environment, where they can burrow and sift through the sand for food. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive tank mates. They thrive in a stable environment with clean, well-oxygenated water.

Reproduction

In the wild, Twospot Gobies are known to form monogamous pairs. The male prepares a burrow where the female will lay her eggs, and he then guards and cares for the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding these gobies can be challenging, but with the right conditions, it is possible to encourage spawning.

Symbiosis

An interesting aspect of Ctenogobiops maculosus is its symbiotic relationship with certain species of snapping shrimp. In the wild, the goby and shrimp share a burrow, with the goby acting as a lookout for predators while the shrimp maintains the burrow. This mutualistic relationship can also be observed in the home aquarium if both species are kept together.

Habitat

The Twospot Goby is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit sandy and rubble substrates in lagoons and coastal reefs, often at depths of up to 30 meters. Their natural habitat includes areas with abundant coral growth and access to burrowing spaces.