Common name: Yellowtail Pygmy Goby
General information
The Yellowtail Pygmy Goby, scientifically known as Trimma flavicaudatum, is a small and colorful marine fish that is a favorite among nano-reef enthusiasts. This species is known for its vibrant yellow tail, which contrasts beautifully with its predominantly red body adorned with blue and white markings. Despite its small size, this goby is full of personality and can be a lively addition to a well-established aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 40 liter (11 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 4 cm (1½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers caves and overhangs
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
- Social
- Harem Males may be territorial
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusPygmy GobiesTrimma
- SpeciesYellowtail Pygmy GobyTrimma flavicaudatum (Goren, 1982)
- SynonymsQuisquilius flavicaudatus Goren, 1982
Care
Trimma flavicaudatum is a hardy species that thrives in a stable, mature aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are peaceful fish that do well in small groups or pairs, provided the aquarium has enough space and hiding spots for each individual. A varied diet of small, meaty foods such as copepods, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
Like many gobies, the Yellowtail Pygmy Goby is an egg-laying species. They often spawn in small caves or under overhangs within the live rock. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging due to their small size and the specific requirements of the larvae.
Habitat
Trimma flavicaudatum is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral reefs and rubble slopes, usually at depths ranging from 5 to 40 meters. In the aquarium, they appreciate a similar environment with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate.