Common name: Noble goby
General information
Eugene's Goby, scientifically known as Priolepis eugenius, is a small and colorful marine fish that is a charming addition to any reef aquarium. This species is known for its peaceful demeanor and striking coloration, which includes a yellowish body with blue to purple stripes running longitudinally along its sides. They are not as common in the trade as some other gobies, but they are highly valued by enthusiasts for their unique appearance and behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 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 Prefers live rock for hiding
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
- Social
- Pair Pairs are harmonious
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusGobyPriolepis
- SpeciesNoble gobyPriolepis eugenius (Jordan & Evermann, 1903)
- SynonymsHetereleotris eugenius (Jordan & Everymann)Quisquilius eugenius Jordan & Evermann, 1903
Care
Eugene's Goby is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They prefer a tank with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate where they can forage for small invertebrates and detritus. These gobies are known to be jumpers, so a well-fitted aquarium lid is essential to prevent escape. They thrive in a stable environment with consistent water quality and benefit from a varied diet that includes small meaty foods and quality marine pellets.
Reproduction
In the wild, Eugene's Goby forms monogamous pairs and spawns in small crevices or under overhangs. In the aquarium, breeding is possible but not common. If a pair does spawn, the male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. The larvae are planktonic and can be challenging to rear in captivity due to their small size and specific dietary requirements.
Habitat
Eugene's Goby is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. In their natural habitat, they are usually seen in pairs or small groups, darting among the crevices and overhangs of the reef structure.