Common name: Crossroads goby

Scientific name: Priolepis compita Winterbottom, 1985

General information

The Aurora Goby, Priolepis compita, is a small and peaceful fish that is well-suited for nano and small reef aquariums. Its captivating coloration, with a mix of pink, yellow, and blue hues, makes it a visually appealing addition to any tank. This species is relatively rare in the aquarium trade, which can make it a unique and prized specimen for hobbyists.

Details

Recommended minimum volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
6 cm (2½″)
Care level
Moderate to easy
Diet
Carnivore
Social
Harem
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No
Conservation status
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
    Goby
    Priolepis
  7. Species
    Crossroads goby
    Priolepis compita Winterbottom, 1985

Care

Aurora Gobies are hardy and adaptable, but they do best in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are not aggressive and can be kept with other peaceful tank mates. A varied diet of small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Priolepis compita has not been widely bred, and there is limited information on their breeding habits. However, like many gobies, they are likely to spawn in a secure cave or crevice, with the male guarding the eggs.

Habitat

Aurora Gobies are found in the Western Pacific, typically in shallow, coral-rich environments. They often inhabit areas with rubble and coral fragments where they can easily hide from predators.