Common name: Unicolor coralgoby

Scientific name: Gobiodon unicolor (Castelnau, 1873)

General information

The Uniform Goby, also known as the Green Clown Goby or Earspot Coral Goby, is a small and peaceful fish that makes a delightful addition to any reef aquarium. Its scientific name is Gobiodon unicolor, and it belongs to the family Gobiidae. This species is appreciated for its vibrant green coloration and its relatively easy care requirements.

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
6 cm (2½″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers complex environments
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
Social
Pair Pairs are often monogamous
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be territorial in small tanks
Captive bred
Yes Available as captive-bred

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Goby
    Gobiidae
  6. Genus
    Clown Gobies
    Gobiodon
  7. Species
    Unicolor coralgoby
    Gobiodon unicolor (Castelnau, 1873)
  8. Synonyms
    Ellerya unicolor Castelnau, 1873
    Elleya unicolor Castelnau, 1873

Care

Uniform Gobies are hardy and can adapt to a variety of tank conditions, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting microfauna. These gobies are not demanding when it comes to diet; they will readily accept a variety of foods including frozen and live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and quality flake and pellet foods.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Uniform Gobies may spawn if they are kept in a peaceful environment with a suitable mate. They lay their eggs in crevices or on the substrate, and the male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Hobbyists interested in breeding should provide a stress-free environment and ensure good water quality.

Symbiosis

While not as well-known for symbiotic relationships as clownfish, some goby species, including the Uniform Goby, have been observed forming mutualistic relationships with certain invertebrates, such as pistol shrimp. However, this behavior is less common and not as pronounced as in other goby species.

Habitat

Gobiodon unicolor is found in the Western Pacific, inhabiting coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs. They are often associated with branching corals, such as Acropora, where they seek refuge and forage for food. These gobies are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 15 meters.