Common name: Fan shrimp-goby
General information
The Shrimp Goby, scientifically known as Tomiyamichthys latruncularius, is a fascinating species for marine aquarium enthusiasts. This small, bottom-dwelling fish is known for its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimps, which makes it a unique addition to any reef tank. The Shrimp Goby has a muted color palette, typically displaying a combination of tan, white, and brown hues, with a distinctive pattern that helps it blend into the sandy substrate of its natural habitat.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers live rock for hiding
- Symbiosis
- Yes May clean other fish
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Pairs are monogamous
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusShrimp GobiesTomiyamichthys
- SpeciesFan shrimp-gobyTomiyamichthys latruncularius (Klausewitz, 1974)
- SynonymsEilatia latruncularia Klausewitz, 1974Flabelligobius latruncularius (Klausewitz, 1974)Flabellogobius latruncularius (Klausewitz, 1974)
Care
Shrimp Gobies are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in a well-established aquarium. They require a sandy substrate to mimic their natural environment, where they can burrow and interact with their symbiotic shrimp partners. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other non-aggressive tank mates. They thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, Shrimp Gobies may spawn if they are kept in a stress-free environment with plenty of hiding places. The male will guard the eggs, which are typically laid in a burrow or on a flat surface.
Symbiosis
One of the most interesting aspects of the Shrimp Goby is its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimps of the genus Alpheus. The shrimp maintains and digs a shared burrow while the goby stands guard, warning the shrimp of approaching predators with subtle body movements. This partnership allows both species to thrive, with the shrimp gaining protection and the goby benefiting from a well-maintained burrow.
Habitat
Tomiyamichthys latruncularius is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the western Pacific. They inhabit sandy and rubble substrates in lagoons and coastal reefs, often in association with their shrimp partners.