Common name: Slender sponge-goby
General information
The Elongate Ghost Goby, scientifically known as Pleurosicya elongata, is a small and fascinating fish species that is a member of the Gobiidae family. This species is known for its slender body and transparent appearance, which allows it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, making it a master of camouflage in the reef environment.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 40 liter (11 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 3.5 cm (1½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers live rock with crevices
- Diet
- Carnivore Feeds on small crustaceans
- Social
- Pair Pairs often share burrows
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusMushroom Coral BlennyPleurosicya
- SpeciesSlender sponge-gobyPleurosicya elongata Larson, 1990
Care
Elongate Ghost Gobies are suitable for nano and larger reef aquariums due to their small size and peaceful nature. They thrive in well-established tanks with plenty of live rock and coral branches to perch on and hide among. These gobies are not aggressive and can be kept with other peaceful tank mates. They primarily feed on small crustaceans and zooplankton, so a varied diet including finely chopped seafood and quality marine flake or pellet food is recommended.
Reproduction
In the wild, Elongate Ghost Gobies are known to spawn in small crevices or under overhangs where they can attach their eggs. In the aquarium, breeding is possible but challenging due to their specific spawning requirements and the care needed for the larvae.
Habitat
Pleurosicya elongata is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and are often associated with branching corals, where they seek refuge and forage for food. These gobies prefer areas with moderate water flow and access to microfauna as a food source.