Common name: yellowline goby

General information

The Sharknose Goby, Elacatinus horsti, is a small, vibrant fish known for its distinctive yellow stripe running from the nose to the tail, which gives it its common name. This species is part of the Gobiidae family and is native to the Caribbean Sea. It is a cleaner goby, which means it has a unique ecological role in its natural habitat, picking parasites and dead skin off larger fish.

In the aquarium trade, Sharknose Gobies are appreciated for their peaceful nature and their beneficial cleaning behavior. They are relatively hardy and can adapt well to life in captivity, provided their specific needs are met.

Care

Sharknose Gobies are suitable for both nano and larger reef aquariums. They require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. These gobies are known to jump, so a tight-fitting lid or screen is necessary to prevent escape.

Their diet in captivity should include a variety of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and prepared foods designed for marine omnivores. It is important to feed them small amounts multiple times a day due to their high metabolism.

Reproduction

In the wild, Sharknose Gobies are monogamous and form pairs during the breeding season. They lay their eggs in small crevices or under overhangs in the reef. In the aquarium, breeding Sharknose Gobies can be a rewarding experience. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch.

Symbiosis

Sharknose Gobies engage in a mutualistic relationship with larger fish, offering a cleaning service by removing ectoparasites and dead tissue. This behavior is not only fascinating to observe but also beneficial to the overall health of the aquarium inhabitants.

Habitat

Elacatinus horsti is found in shallow reefs and seagrass beds of the Caribbean Sea. They are often observed in small groups or pairs, hovering near coral heads or sponges where they perform their cleaning duties on passing fish.