Common name: Leopard dwarfgoby
General information
The Leopard-spotted Goby, scientifically known as Eviota pardalota, is a diminutive and ornately patterned species of goby that is a delight to observe in a reef aquarium. Its body is adorned with a mosaic of brown and white spots, which gives it its common name and allows it to blend seamlessly with the reef environment. This species is part of the diverse and fascinating Gobiidae family, known for their interesting behaviors and adaptability to aquarium life.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 40 liter (11 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 7.8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 3 cm (1¼″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers complex habitats
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
- Social
- Harem Best kept in groups
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusDwarf GobiesEviota
- SpeciesLeopard dwarfgobyEviota pardalota Lachner & Karnella, 1978
Care
Leopard-spotted Gobies are small, reaching only about 2.5 centimeters in length, making them suitable for nano or larger reef aquariums with stable water conditions. They thrive in environments with plenty of live rock and coral rubble, which provide hiding places and surfaces for grazing on microfauna. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive tank mates. They are known to jump, so a well-fitting aquarium lid is essential to prevent escape.
Their diet should consist of small, meaty foods such as copepods, and they may also accept finely chopped seafood and quality flake or pellet foods designed for marine fish. Regular feedings will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
Reproduction
Like many gobies, Eviota pardalota is an oviparous species, with distinct breeding behaviors. Males may court females by displaying their fins and engaging in a dance-like ritual. After spawning, the male guards the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding may occur if the environment is well-maintained, but raising the larvae can be challenging due to their small size and specific dietary requirements.
Habitat
Eviota pardalota is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral reefs and rubble slopes, typically at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. Their natural habitat is characterized by clear, warm waters with abundant coral growth and a rich diversity of invertebrates, which provide both food and shelter for these diminutive gobies.