Common name: Threadfin reefgoby
General information
The Masked Goby, scientifically known as Priolepis nuchifasciata, is a small and peaceful fish that is well-suited for nano and pico reef aquariums. Its striking appearance, characterized by a yellowish body with numerous vertical bars and a distinctive black spot on the nape, makes it a favorite among aquarists. This species is not as common in the trade as some other gobies, but it is highly valued for its beauty and interesting 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
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Social
- Pair
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusGobyPriolepis
- SpeciesThreadfin reefgobyPriolepis nuchifasciata (Günther, 1873)
- SynonymsCremornea francoisi Whitley, 1962Gobius nuchifasciatus Günther, 1873Zonogobius nuchifasciatus (Günther, 1873)
Care
Masked Gobies are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced hobbyists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A sand substrate is also beneficial as they occasionally sift through it for food. They are not aggressive towards other tank mates and can be kept with a variety of peaceful fish and invertebrates. A varied diet of small meaty foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the home aquarium, Masked Gobies may spawn if kept in a pair. They are cave spawners, laying their eggs in a secure location where the male will guard and tend to them until they hatch. The larvae are planktonic and can be challenging to rear, requiring a diet of microscopic foods such as rotifers or copepods.
Habitat
Priolepis nuchifasciata is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and rubble slopes, often seen hovering near the bottom at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. Their natural habitat includes areas with moderate to strong water movement, which should be replicated in the home aquarium to some extent for their well-being.