Common name: Barsnout goby

General information

The Yellowline Goby, Elacatinus illecebrosus, is a small, vibrant fish that is a member of the Gobiidae family. It is known for its striking yellow longitudinal stripe that runs from the eye to the base of the caudal fin, contrasting against its otherwise translucent body. This species is native to the Western Atlantic, particularly around the Caribbean Sea.

Care

Yellowline Gobies are hardy and suitable for most reef aquariums. They are peaceful fish that can be kept with a variety of tank mates. They prefer aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. These gobies are carnivorous, feeding on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild, so a diet of meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Yellowline Gobies can form monogamous pairs and may breed. They lay their eggs in a sheltered location, and the male typically guards the nest. The larvae are planktonic after hatching and require very fine foods.

Symbiosis

Elacatinus illecebrosus does not have any widely known symbiotic relationships akin to those of clownfish or shrimp gobies. However, they do play a role in the cleaning symbiosis by occasionally picking parasites from other fish.

Habitat

Yellowline Gobies are found in shallow reefs and seagrass beds, often in association with sponges and other reef structures. They are typically observed at depths from just below the surface to about 60 feet.