Common name: bully

General information

The Abax Pygmy Goby, scientifically known as Eviota abax, is a diminutive and colorful species of goby that is a charming addition to any nano or small-sized reef aquarium. This species is part of the diverse Gobiidae family, which is known for its small size and interesting behaviors. The Abax Pygmy Goby is particularly noted for its vibrant coloration, typically displaying a combination of orange, red, and white hues that can add a pop of color to the reef tank.

Care

Eviota abax requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock and hiding places to feel secure. Due to their small size, they are best kept in tanks that are not dominated by larger, more aggressive fish. They thrive in stable water conditions with good water quality, and they should be fed a varied diet of small-sized foods such as copepods, brine shrimp, and other microfauna.

Reproduction

Like many gobies, Eviota abax is known to be a serial spawner, laying eggs in small clutches throughout the year. The males are typically responsible for guarding the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if the environment is stable and the fish are well-fed, but raising the larvae can be challenging due to their minute size and specific dietary requirements.

Habitat

Eviota abax is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral-rich areas and rubble slopes, often seen at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. In the wild, they are associated with specific types of coral and rubble which provide shelter and feeding grounds.