Common name: Emery's pygmygoby
General information
The Emery's Pygmy Goby, scientifically known as Trimma emeryi, is a small and colorful marine fish that is a popular choice among nano-reef enthusiasts. This species is known for its vibrant red and yellow coloration, with a distinctive red head that fades into a yellowish body. They are part of the Gobiidae family, which is one of the largest families of marine fishes.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 40 liter (11 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
- 2.5 cm (1″)
- Care level
- Easy
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Social
- Harem
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusPygmy GobiesTrimma
- SpeciesEmery's pygmygobyTrimma emeryi Winterbottom, 1985
Care
Emery's Pygmy Goby is well-suited for small, mature reef aquariums where they can find plenty of hiding spots among live rock and coral. They are peaceful fish that can be kept with other non-aggressive tank mates. Due to their small size, they should not be housed with large or predatory fish. A varied diet of small, meaty foods such as copepods, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended for their well-being.
Reproduction
Like many gobies, Trimma emeryi are known to be cave spawners, laying their eggs in small crevices or under overhangs within the aquarium. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging due to their specific spawning requirements and the tiny size of the larvae.
Habitat
Trimma emeryi is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral reefs and rubble slopes, usually at depths ranging from 3 to 40 meters. In the wild, they are often observed hovering near the substrate or within the shelter of coral branches.