Common name: Blackbelly goby

General information

The Blackbelly Dwarfgoby, Eviota nigriventris, is a tiny yet captivating species of marine fish known for its diminutive size and striking coloration. This species is part of the Gobiidae family, which is one of the largest families of marine fishes. Distinguished by its dark belly, from which it gets its common name, the Blackbelly Dwarfgoby is a relatively recent addition to the aquarium trade and is appreciated for its peaceful demeanor and interesting behavior.

Care

Due to their small size, Blackbelly Dwarfgobies can be kept in nano or pico reef aquariums, making them ideal for hobbyists with limited space. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock and hiding places. These gobies are not demanding when it comes to diet and will readily accept a variety of small-sized foods such as copepods, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Consistent water quality and stable parameters are crucial for their well-being.

Reproduction

Blackbelly Dwarfgobies are known to spawn in captivity, which can be a rewarding experience for the aquarist. They lay small clutches of eggs, often in hidden locations within the live rock. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Raising the larvae can be challenging due to their minute size and the need for very small food items like rotifers or copepod nauplii.

Habitat

Eviota nigriventris is found in the Western Pacific, particularly around the Philippines and Indonesia. They inhabit coral reefs and rubble slopes, usually at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. In their natural environment, they are often observed hovering close to the substrate or within the shelter of coral branches.