Common name: Girdled goby
General information
The Half-barred Goby, scientifically known as Priolepis semidoliata, is a small and attractive fish that is well-suited for nano and small reef aquariums. This species is known for its peaceful demeanor and striking coloration, featuring a pale body with distinctive dark vertical bars. They are not as common in the trade as some other gobies, but they are prized by hobbyists 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
- 8 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Social
- Harem
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusGobyPriolepis
- SpeciesGirdled gobyPriolepis semidoliata (Valenciennes, 1837)
- SynonymsGobius semidoliatus Valenciennes, 1837Gobius semifasciatus Kner, 1868Zonogobius semidokiatus (Valenciennes, 1837)Zonogobius semidoliatus (Valenciennes, 1837)
Care
Half-barred Gobies are relatively easy to care for, provided their basic needs are met. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A sandy substrate is also beneficial as they occasionally burrow. These gobies are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and zooplankton in the wild, so a varied diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, Priolepis semidoliata may breed if kept in a pair or small group, provided they have a stress-free environment. They lay eggs in a secure cave or crevice, and the male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Breeding these gobies can be a rewarding experience for the dedicated hobbyist.
Habitat
Half-barred Gobies are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often seen in shallow waters hiding among corals and rubble. Their natural habitat includes areas with moderate to strong water movement.