Common name: Slender sponge-goby

Scientific name: Pleurosicya elongata Larson, 1990
Slender Spongegoby Pleurosicya elongataElongate goby, Pleurosicya elongata, camouflaging on an elephant ear sponge, Bali Indonesia.
Slender Spongegoby Pleurosicya elongataSlender Spongegoby Pleurosicya elongata

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
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

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
    Mushroom Coral Blenny
    Pleurosicya
  7. Species
    Slender sponge-goby
    Pleurosicya 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.