Common name: sharknose goby

General information

The Sharknose Goby, Elacatinus evelynae, is a small, vibrant fish known for its distinctive elongated snout and striking coloration. Typically, they exhibit a bright yellow head that transitions into a blue-grey body, with a horizontal white stripe running from the eye to the caudal fin. This species is part of the cleaner gobies group, which play an important role in maintaining the health of other fish by removing parasites and dead skin.

Care

Sharknose Gobies are hardy and suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates. They are omnivores, feeding on small crustaceans and fish parasites in the wild, but in captivity, they readily accept a diet of finely chopped seafood and commercial preparations designed for marine omnivores.

Reproduction

In the wild, Sharknose Gobies form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They lay their eggs in small crevices or under overhangs on the reef. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. Captive breeding is possible, and hobbyists interested in breeding should provide a separate breeding tank with similar conditions to the main display.

Symbiosis

Sharknose Gobies are known for their mutualistic relationship with larger fish, offering cleaning services by picking off parasites and dead tissue. This behavior is not only fascinating to observe but also beneficial for the overall health of the aquarium community.

Habitat

Elacatinus evelynae is native to the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to the northern coast of South America. They are typically found on coral reefs, often in association with stony corals and sponges, where they perform their cleaning duties.