Common name: Zebra goby

General information

The Zebra Dartfish, scientifically known as Eviota zebrina, is a small and captivating species of goby that is cherished by aquarists for its striking zebra-like pattern and dynamic behavior. This species is part of the diverse Gobiidae family, which is known for its vast array of colorful and interesting members. The Zebra Dartfish is particularly noted for its slender body, adorned with alternating horizontal stripes of dark and light colors, which provide excellent camouflage among the coral reefs it inhabits.

Care

Eviota zebrina is a hardy species that can thrive in a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They prefer a tank with plenty of live rock and crevices for hiding, as well as a sandy substrate. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive tank mates. They are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods, including small live and frozen fare such as brine shrimp and copepods, as well as high-quality flake and pellet foods.

Reproduction

Like many gobies, the Zebra Dartfish is known to spawn in captivity, though raising the larvae can be challenging. The eggs are typically laid in a secure location within the live rock or coral, and both parents may exhibit protective behaviors. Successful breeding requires excellent water quality and a specialized rearing tank for the larvae, which need a diet of microscopic foods such as rotifers initially.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Zebra Dartfish is the coral reef environment, where it can be found darting among the corals and rocks. It is a reef-associated species that is often observed hovering just above the substrate or nestled within the branches of corals. This species is native to the Western Pacific, with a range that includes the Philippines, Indonesia, and northern Australia.